Birmingham, AL - R.C. Wakefield was born in Winston county Alabama and grew up during the Great Depression. He saw much change in his 95 years. He volunteered for the Army Air Corp during WWII, finishing high school early to enlist. He became a tailgunner in a B24 and his plane was shot down during a bombing mission. He parachuted out and was a POW in Germany until end of the war. He returned to go to school on the GI bill, graduating from Auburn (Alabama Polytechnic Institute) in forestry and later obtained a law degree from Jones Law School Montgomery.
He was married for 59 years to Louise Wheeler. They had 3 children, 5 grandsons, 3 great grandchildren who all loved him very much. He was also loved by his many nieces and nephews and other extended family.
Mr. Wakefield was active in Kiwanis, American Legion, First United Methodist Church and several Forestry organizations. He was a skilled woodworker, building many pieces of furniture and clocks. He loved the outdoors and being in the woods.
He was an overcomer who believed in, and lived a life of, honest hard work and education.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the following organizations are requested:
· Sylacauga B.B. Comer Library
· Sylacauga First United Methodist Church Kindergarten
· American Ex-Prisoners of War
The family will honor Mr. Wakefield with a private service.
Memorial messages may be sent to the family at www.dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/sylacauga-al/radney-smith-funeral-home/8516.
Radney-Smith Funeral Home in Sylacauga, AL will direct the services.
