Deacon Clarence James Alford
1908-1974
Spouse
Perrie Lee Perkins Alford Johnson
1915-1998
Children
The Late Barbara N. Alford Anderson
Lillie Alford Loggins
Rev Glenn Clarence Alford
Glenda Alford Atkins
During the Ft Walton Beach (FWB) Jim Crow and Post Jim Crow Periods Deacon Clarence James Alford was a FWB Community Leader, devoted husband and father of four children! He was one the key FWB African American Movers and Shakers!
Deacon Clarence James Alford was one of the original founders and members of Beulah First Baptist Church. He was affectionately called “Deek” and served in many church capacities. He served as church treasurer, trustee, ten years as chairman of the Deacon Board, Men’s Sunday School Teacher, started the Men’s Day Program at the church, and he instituted a program to grain Junior Deacons. As one of the founders of the church, his name is displayed on the cornerstone in front of the church.
As one of the FWB African Movers and Shakers Deacon Alford’s community accomplishments included:
- Petitioning the Fort Walton Beach City Council and the state legislature to request federal affordable housing for low-income families, Urban Renewal Projects and the Food Stamp Program.
- The President of the Civic League for many years until his health failed.
- Helped establish the first FWB African American Community Center- The building is currently the FWB Head Start Center.
- He was credited with the naming of many FWB facilities after other FWB African American community leaders, such as the Chester Pruitt Center- Now The Life Center- that was named to honor Chester Pruitt FWB’s first black policeman and Butler’s Terrace to honor Deacon Bennie (Daddy) Butler, one of the founders of Beulah First Baptist Church for his community leadership, and
- Alford Court that is located near Gregg Chapel AM&E Church on Carson Drive was named in his honor. Deacon Clarence Alford Way at the Sound Side Apartments was also named in his honor!
His spouse, Sister Parrie Lee Alford-Johnson was also a Beulah First Baptist Church and FWB Community leader. Many areas of the church prospered through her hands with God, guidance and resources:
- In the mid 1950’s she and other church members established the first Vacation Bible School (VBS) at Beulah First Baptist Church.
- Also in the mid 1950’s she organized the Baptist Young People’s Union (BYPU)
- She ministered over many Christmas, Easter and Youth Programs.
- Taught the Pre-Teen Sunday School Class for many years.
- Active in the Church Mission Department and in 1985 she organized the Junior Women’s Mission which is still active.
- In 1992, she started the Senior Citizens Noon Day Prayer Service that is also still active. and,
- She was an advocate for poor working families and was constantly engaged in helping them in their time of need.
All of Deacon Clarence James Alford’s children are active church members, well educated and actively involved in the communities where they currently live.
Deacon Alford, At age 66, passed away on December 18, 1974, at Emerald Hospice, FWB. Deacon Clarence J Alford was laid to rest at the Beal Memorial Cemetery, FWD.