Ralph Layton Williford, Sr.

Ralph Layton Williford, Sr., 84, of Kinston passed away quietly December 24, 2018 at UNC Lenoir Healthcare, Kinston, following a brief illness.

He leaves behind his son, Ralph L. Williford, Jr., (Betty); daughter Sandra W. Rockenhauser (Jim); granddaughters Ashley W. Ledford (Stephen), Brittany Leigh Williford; two great grandchildren Anna Caroline and Kevin Layton Ledford; sister Eva W. Keene and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 61 years, Elaine Capps Williford. Also, two sisters and two brothers.

Born January 30, 1934 in Sampson County to William and Rella Tart Williford. Ralph excelled at basketball in high school. After serving in the U.S. Army, Mr. Williford joined CenturyLink and retired after 38 years. He enjoyed playing on the company softball team. After retirement Ralph volunteered with Meals on Wheels and enjoyed spending time on the coast fishing, traveling and gardening.

The family would like to express appreciation to his second “family”, Georgia, Ivan and Tanya Monroe; friend Mrs. Joy Turnage, the Veterans Home in Kinston, and Lenoir UNC Healthcare team, 3rd floor for their kindness, care and compassion that was extended.

Masonic funeral services will be held at West & Dunn Funeral Home, Newton Grove on Friday, December 28th at 2:00 p.m. with the visitation from 1 till 2 prior to the funeral service. He will be laid to rest in Hillcrest Cemetery with Military Honors. Officiating the service will be the Rev. Hank Jarman.

Online condolences may be made at www.westanddunn.com

Services have been entrusted to West & Dunn Funeral Home, Inc., Newton Grove, North Carolina.