Melvin H Alford

Melvin was the epitome of the head of the family, and he handled the different nuances of that role spectacularly. From guiding the spiritual life of his family, disciplining when necessary, giving advice on all things from autos, home repairs, and financial decisions to making sure that fun was always a part of it by being a traveling partner for vacations, days on the lake, campfires, gravy making for huge family breakfasts, and storytelling, Melvin made every gathering special.

Grandpa Mel is a title he wore proudly, and his grandchildren were absolutely lights in his life. He loved going to their activities, whether that be church events, school plays, or whatever sport was in season - his favorite team was always whichever one his grandchildren were playing on at the time.

Melvin is survived by his beloved wife, Brenda Alford; children, Becky Kearse, Michael (Diane) Alford, Phillip (Lottie) Wathen, Suzanne (Jeremy) Jefferson, Karen (Clayton) Hattabaugh, and Steven (Tiffany) Wathen; 16 Grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; siblings, Stoy Alford, Roger (Jocelyn) Alford, Juanita (Billy) Lawrence, and Larry (Bonnie) Alford.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Ethel Alford; siblings, Gladys Patterson, James Alford, Flossie Jones, Roy Alford, and Ray Alford.

His memory will be cherished by family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.

Visitation will be held at Kraft Funeral Service, 2776 Charlestown Road, New Albany, Indiana 47150, on Sunday, August 10th, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Additional visitation will take place on Monday, August 11th, at Grace Lutheran Church, 1787 Klerner Lane, New Albany, Indiana 47150, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed immediately by the funeral service at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Kraft-Graceland Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial contributions to Grace Lutheran Church.