Mildred Downey Burford

Mildred D. Burford was born April 21, 1921, in Kingsland, Ark., and died at her home at 6:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 6, 2010, following a battle with Alzheimer's disease that lasted more than 14 years. Her daughter, Melinda B. Livingston, and her longtime companion and caregiver, Ollie Disotell, were with her at that time. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 57 years, William M. Burford, an Allstate Agent in Baton Rouge for more than 35 years. She was also preceded in death by her parents, two sisters and a brother. Mrs. Burford is survived by a daughter, Melinda Livingston, and numerous nieces and nephews. She devoted her life to her family, and was a member of the Church of the Way, Presbyterian, for more than 50 years. Services will be conducted by the Rev. Theadore W. and Judy Roeling, and will be held at the Church of the Way Presbyterian, 250 S. Foster Drive, Friday, July 9, with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m., a service in celebration of her life at 11 a.m. to follow. A graveside service and burial will take place in the French Camp Cemetery, French Camp, Miss., on Saturday, July 10, at 10 a.m. The grace and dignity with which Mrs. Burford was able to move through the various stages of Alzheimer's would not have been possible without the selfless dedication and care provided by longtime companions, Ollie Disotell and Elizabeth Sanders. There are no words to adequately thank them for their love and support. The family cares deeply about French Camp Academy, which gives hope and love to children from all walks of life with problems not of their own making. Memorial donations may be made in care of French Camp Academy, One Fine Place, French Camp, MS 39745. Rabenhorst Funeral Home East is in charge of arrangements.