C. Alford, William

William C. Alford of 4380 West Seneca Rd, Trumansburg, passed away at Hospice Comfort Care in Ithaca on Saturday, January 14, 2006 at the age of 84.

Born on October 1, 1921 in Danville, Kentucky, Bill was the son of the late George and Sadie (Miller) Alford.

After attending high school in Burgin, Kentucky he enlisted in the Kentucky National Guard in July, 1939 and was inducted into federal service in November, 1940 along with the National Guard Company stationed at Harrodsburg, Kentucky. Bill served four years overseas with the 192nd Tank Battalion and was taken prisoner by the Japanese in April, 1942. After surviving the Bataan Death March and 3 1/2 years as a prisoner of war, he returned to his home in Kentucky after the war.

For his military service he received several awards and citations including the Bronze Star, Purple Heart and Presidential Citation. Bill was a life member of the Arthur E. Bouton American Legion Post #770 in Trumansburg, VFW Post #961 in Ithaca, DAV NY2 and the A.D.B.C.

Bill attained the rank of Master Sergeant and was discharged in 1946. He later moved to Trumansburg where he was associated with the Chevrolet dealership in Trumansburg for 27 years.

In addition to his wife Mary (Jackie), of 60 years, Bill is survived by one son David (Helen) Alford of Trumansburg; one daughter Judy (Chester) Houseworth of Ithaca; two granddaughters, Sarah Tomborelli of Trumansburg and Melissa Hamrick in the U.S. Navy, Virginia Beach, VA; two grandsons, Brian and Lucas Houseworth of Ithaca; three great-grandchildren, Devon, Katlyn and Lauren Hamrick; three step-grandchildren, Russell, Wayne and Laurie Weaver; two brothers, Robert (Frances) Alford of Harrodsburg, KY and John (Ollie) Alford of Harrodsburg, KY; one sister, Nancy (Fritz) McElfresh of Danville, KY and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Graveside services, with full military honors, will be scheduled and announced in the spring of 2006.

In keeping with Bill's wishes no public calling hours have been scheduled.

The family has entrusted arrangements to the Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, 23 South Street, Trumansburg. 1-888-534-5446.

Page Submitted By: Joseph L. Sibley, Director