Winfred Leffall

Winfred Mandell Leffall, affectionately known as Birdroster and Lenbird, was born to the union of Malcus Leffall and Charlie Mae Holloway on April 2, 1937 in Marshall, Texas. Winfred's father, mother, one brother and one sister preceded him in death.

Winfred received his early educational training in Marshall, Texas. He later completed his formal education in the Dallas school system. He was baptized at the age of seven and attributed his religious training to the influence of his grandfather, Jackson Holloway who was a Baptist minister.

Winfred migrated to Arizona, and later moved to California in 1956. He met and married Cynthia Maria Trotman.

Winfred worked for Firestone Tires in Fresno prior to going to work for Rancher's Cotton Oil in the agricultural industry for twenty-five years as a Foreman. He retired at the age of 54. Winfred never stopped working; he continued his work as a self-employed tractor operator: disking and scraping for the residents of Fresno.

Winfred was a member of the St. Rest Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. Chester Riggins. Winfred worshipped at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church with his wife, Cynthia. He was a member of the Son's of Fresno, Lodge #16. He held the position of the past Worshipful Master. Winfred's hobbies included bible study, hunting and fishing where he loved being outdoors. Other activities included gardening and canning fruit that he loved to share with friends and loved ones. He loved to travel; recently cruising to the Bahamas.

Winfred's favorite pastime included spending time with his family. He recently attended a family reunion with his daughters in 2009 in Dallas, Texas which brought much joy to his heart.

Winfred departed this life on Friday, July 16, 2010 in Fresno, California. Three sons; Richard, Wallace and Lorenzo preceded him in death.

Winfred leaves to cherish his memory Cynthia, his loving wife of 52 years; two sons, Robert (Carolyn) and Gleaster (Jackie) of Fresno, CA; three daughters, Claudette of Fresno, CA, Yvette Anita of Los Angeles, CA and Sheila of Vallejo, CA; one brother, Charles Garrett "Uncle Boot" and one sister Elma Johnson both of Fresno, CA; one special Aunt Vanisha, a special cousin, Charley Williams both of Dallas, TX; fourteen grandchildren, Camille (Kevin), Robert, Dion, Sheron, Gregory, Matthew, Leah, Jasmine, Ashley, Franklin, Ryan, Erica, Kim and Isaac; twelve great-grandchildren and a host of relatives, loved ones and friends.