Wilfred Lionel La Force, a native of Bayou La Batre, passed away December 26, 2023. He was 80 years old and is preceded in death by his wife Barbara “Sissy” La Force, his parents Harold “Buddy” La Force and Mercedes Steiner La Force as well as his siblings Frankie, Mercedes, and Janell. Mourning the loss of their father are Andra (Bill) Meredith and Joyce (Sean) Fisk. He will be greatly missed by his grandchildren: David (Sarah) Meredith, Christian Fisk, Ethan Fisk, and Anna Fisk, and by his great grandson William Meredith. He was a wonderful husband and father and a proud and doting grandfather. He enjoyed life on both sides of Mobile Bay and leaves behind many precious lifelong friends and family and some legendary stories about life on the bayou.
Lionel served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia as an instructor in Officers Training School. His knowledge and expertise of boats and the water allowed him a lifelong career that led him to some exciting destinations such as Africa, Mexico, Ecuador, Pakistan, and the Panama Canal. He brought home exotic gifts, incredible stories, and fond memories of the places and people he met and worked with through the years. At the age of 72, he officially retired from NOAA where he had been a fisheries methods and equipment specialist and Captain of the RV Gandy.
He never met a stranger. He was selfless and extremely generous. Most importantly, he loved Jesus and lived his life accordingly. As his disease progressed, he exhibited the Peace that passes all understanding because he knew that he would be reunited with Sissy and spend Eternity in the presence of God, his Creator and Protector.
A life well lived……To God be the Glory!
A graveside service for Wilfred will be held Friday, December 29, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Odd Fellows Cemetery, 12450 Irvington-Bayou, Bayou LaBatre, AL 36544.
