Sue Martin Alford

Born on December 6, 1933, in Selma, Alabama, Sue was the daughter of Octavia Wright Martin and Edward Broughton Martin, Jr. She was raised in Eufaula, Alabama, where she attended Eufaula High School, and later graduated from Auburn University. While at Auburn, she was an active member of the Kappa Delta sorority.

After graduation, she moved to Birmingham where she met and married her devoted husband of 61 years, Russell Alger “Buddy” Alford, Jr.

Sue enjoyed a successful 24-year career in residential real estate with LAH Real Estate, where her professionalism and dedication earned her Life Member status.

She was a longtime member of Canterbury United Methodist Church, the Country Club of Birmingham, and the Birmingham Bridge Club. She was also active in several social organizations, including the Harlequin Dance Club and the Lilies of the Valley Garden Club.

Sue is survived by her daughter, Landon Alford Stivender (John Stivender); her beloved granddaughter, Walton Stivender Mears (Isaiah Mears), who affectionately knew her as “Nana”; and her sister-in-law, Mary Anne Martin of Montgomery. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and her brother, Edward Broughton Martin, III.

Sue will be remembered for her grace, warmth, and generous spirit. She cherished her many friendships. She traveled extensively throughout her life, but she especially loved the Gulf Coast of Florida, where she vacationed often. She also enjoyed playing bridge, knitting, gardening, and cooking. She was an avid reader, and was a frequent visitor to the O’Neal Library in Crestline.

The family is deeply grateful for her devoted caregivers and extends special thanks to Ivy Taylor for her extraordinary love, compassion, and unwavering care.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026, in the Chapel at Canterbury United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the O’Neal Library, 50 Oak Street, Mountain Brook, AL 35213, or to a charity of your choice.