Gary Henry Langford, life-long Mohawk Valley resident, passed away at his home in Wellton, Arizona April 1, 2018. Born in Tolleson, Arizona, October 8, 1939, to Linner Mae (Tyson) Langford and Henry Harrison Langford, Gary will be greatly missed by his wife of 24 years, Nancy, his family, and many friends. He will be remembered by all who knew him for his big heart and generosity.
As the son of a Southern Pacific Railroad foreman, Gary spent his childhood in areas along the railroad: Growler, Colford, Roll, and Wellton. He attended grade school at Mohawk Valley School. After graduating from Antelope Union High School in 1957, he served 2 years in the U.S. Air Force at Ent AFB in Colorado Springs, Colorado. When Gary returned home to Arizona, he became a dispatcher for Wellton-Mohawk Irrigation and Drainage District, thereafter working as a lineman, serviceman, and Power Supervisor, retiring as Manager of Operations after 54 years of service. In addition to his work at WMIDD, he was known throughout the valley as the go-to guy for electrical and refrigeration jobs.
Gary loved and gave tirelessly to his community, including serving 14 years on the Wellton School District Board and 4 years on the Antelope Union High School Board, during which time he had the honor of awarding four of his children their diplomas. He also served on Arizona’s Federal Surplus Property Advisory Council and was a member of Wellton Kiwanis Club for many years. He enjoyed his work so much that he considered it his hobby, but he was also an avid reader and loved to travel. Above all else, Gary cherished his family and took great pride in being a father and grandfather.
Gary is survived by his wife, Nancy, daughters Elizabeth Laster, Melinda Tortolano, and Melody (Dunn) Langford, and their mother Dottie (Langford) Hunt. Also, grandchildren Lindsay (Laster) Youngblood, Luke Laster, Kirk Dunn, and Ty Dunn.
Gary is predeceased by sons Kirk and Nate, brother Wayne, sisters Sue Hill, Wanda Rinehart, Joyce Grasis, and his parents.
A memorial service honoring Gary is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. April 21st, at First Southern Baptist Church, 11711 Williams Street, in Wellton. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Humane Society of Yuma.
