James T Wolford

James T. Wolford, 85, of Springfield, passed away on Thursday October 7, 2021 at his home.

James was born in Jacksonville on February 9, 1936 the son of James Charles and Eula (Campbell) Wolford. He married Donna Cass on July 27, 1962 in Springfield; she preceded him in death on December 30, 2012.

Mr. Wolford joined the Illinois National Huard on May 15, 1954. He was called to active duty because of trouble in Berlin, from October 1961 to August 1962. He served in the 144th ADC in Fresno, CA., 161st MAC in Phoenix, AZ., and finally rejoined the 183rd TFS in Springfield. He retired from the Air National Guard in February 1979 and joined the Air Force Reserve; retiring in 1996.

Along with his military service he worked as a truck driver, security officer and an auto mechanic. He retired after working 30 years in 2002.

He joined the American Legion Post 441 in Bluffs, IL. The post had been named after his grandfather, Charles Wolford. He also had the honor of serving as a Post Commander. He was also a member of the Springfield-Sangamon Rescue Squad.

He was also preceded in death by his parents: one daughter, Debra Wolford Smith; two sons, Michael and James Robert Wolford; two brothers; and one sister.

James is survived by four children, Jaci Wolford, Jimmy Wolford, Jack (April) Wolford, and Teri Teuth; three step-children, Donna (Ron) Boggs, Melvin (companion, Angie) Fortner and Larry Fortner; two sisters, Cindy Cook of Fresno, CA. and Linda Walla of Selma, CA; sixteen grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday October 13, 2021 at Ellinger-Kunz and Park Funeral Home, 530 N. 5th St. Springfield, IL 62702. Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery where the Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County will conduct military honors.

There will be a memorial announcement to be placed in lieu of flowers. 

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