Tuskegee Airman
Isaac James Wilford Sr., 92, transitioned from this life to the next Wednesday November 19, 2008. His celebration of life was held November 24, 2008. Isaac was born on September 27, 1916 to the union of Hallie M. Wilford and Lena Pearl Benton Wilford in Alexandria, La. He and his siblings were all educated in the St. Louis Public Schools system. Isaac graduated from Vashon High School and later attended Stowe Teachers College.
Isaac joined the Army Air Force on September 14, 1942, entering active duty January 8, 1943 as an Aircraft Radio Repairman. His squadron, the 99th Pursuit Squadron, united with the 101 to form the 332 Squadron, which later became part of what is known as the Tuskegee Airmen. As a member of the original Tuskegee Airmen, he and his fellow comrades were honored March 29, 2007 in Washington D.C. with the Congressional Medal of Honor. Isaac was a dedicated employee of the government for 35 years and retired in 1973.
Isaac was a devoted man of God, baptized at Union Memorial United Methodist Church under the pastorate Dr. B.F. Abbott. In his 91 years of membership he was active in many capacities, including teaching Sunday school, working with Methodist Men and the Credit Union.
Isaac was also blessed in love and joined in marriage with John Alice Harris on June 19, 1949 in Kosciusko, Miss. Four children, Isaac James, Renee Elizabeth, Michelle Denise and Lauren Alice, were born of their union. Isaac and John Alice enjoyed 48 years in their joyful union before she preceded him in death in 1997.
Isaac was a lively spirit with an infectious laugh that will be missed. As the patriarch leader of his family he gave ample doses of wisdom that have served those he loved through life’s journey. He leaves to mourn in his passing four children, Isaac J. Wilford, Jr. (Jo Ann), Renee E. Gates (Keith), Michelle D. Sanders (Louis) and Lauren W. Allen (DeLearn); 10 grandchildren, Brian E. Wilford, Erica L. Wilford, Keith R. Gates Jr., Justin R. Gates, Rachel N. Gates, Meredith E. Sanders, Tyler I. Allen, Allison W. Sanders, Alexis G. Allen and Trenton T. Allen; one great-granddaughter Tamara M. Wilford; three nieces, two nephews and a host of other family members and friends.
Condolences may be sent to the family at IJWilfordmemorial@yahoo.com.