John Hal Alford passed away on March 24, 2010 at St. John's Hospital after recent surgery and a long battle with several chronic health issues. He was born on April 15, 1932 in Dallas County and was the youngest son of J. Homer and Grace (Marsh) Alford. John graduated from Buffalo High School in 1950 and from Southwest Missouri State Teacher's College in 1954. He received his Masters Degree from the University of Missouri in 1963. He was united in marriage to Jo Ann Neill on November 26, 1953 and to this enduring union two daughters were born. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Jo Ann; two daughters, Jan Alford of Buffalo and Dr. Julie Alford of Springfield; precious granddaughter, Jamie Lynn Alford of Springfield; brother, Rex Alford of Houston Texas; sister Irene Greene of Largo Florida; sister-in-law, Janice Alexander and husband Sam of Blue Springs; brother-in -law, Jerry Neill and wife Carol of Lake Quivera, KS. He also leaves behind his nieces, nephews and a host of other family and friends who will truly miss him. John was a devoted, loving husband, father and grandfather. He took great pleasure in supporting his family in whatever activities they pursued. He always put their needs and wishes ahead of his own. They never doubted his love for them. Even as his health declined, he was overjoyed and uplifted by the arrival of his wonderful granddaughter, Jamie Lynn. John was a teacher not only by profession, but also in his heart. He taught high school for 47 years, with 10 of them at Buffalo High and 37 at Central High in Springfield. He served two terms as president of the Springfield Education Association. His dedication to Central High was well known. He was one of the school's greatest proponents. On many occasions, he helped lead the movement to maintain Central's identity and mission. Our family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at St. John's Hospital for their care and support. We would especially like to thank Dr. Teresa Olsen for her heartfelt dedication, skill and compassion through John's many illnesses. Funeral Services will be conducted on Sunday at 2:30 pm March 28, 2010 at the Buffalo United Methodist Church on Pine St. under the direction of Montgomery-Viets Funeral Home of Buffalo. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 pm Saturday, March 27 at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the John Alford Central High Math Scholarship.