Michael Gafford

Coleman Funeral Home of Oxford Michael Gafford, 75, died peacefully surrounded by his family on May 14, 2024, in Oxford, Mississippi. The family will receive friends on Saturday, May 18, 2024, from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM at Shiloh Baptist Church (31 Co Rd 429, Oxford, Mississippi 38655). The funeral service celebrating his life will take place on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 12:00 PM in the sanctuary of Shiloh Baptist Church. Mike, born October 28, 1948, was the son of the late Walter A. (Bud) and Jeanne Emerson Gafford of Avon, Mississippi. Mike graduated from Riverside High School in 1967 and some two years later married his beloved wife Nancy Bolt Gafford on December 21, 1969, and soon deployed to Vietnam. Mike proudly served his country in the Army. He was a member of the A Troop 2nd 17th Calvary 101st Airborne and was on active duty in Vietnam in 1970. Mike was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his bravery during the war. Mike was immensely proud of his family, especially his daughters, Cole and Sommer, and his four grandchildren, Blake, Presleigh, Luke, and Olivia. Beyond his role as a family man and soldier, he worked as a research technician for the United States Department of Agriculture until his retirement. Mike belonged to the body of believers at Shiloh Baptist Church in Oxford, Mississippi. Although he has departed from our presence, Mike's memory will hold a special place in the hearts and minds of his loved ones. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Gafford, of Oxford, Mississippi; two daughters, Cole (Michael) Loper of Oxford, Mississippi, and Sommer Thompson of Taylorsville, Mississippi; and four grandchildren: Blake Loper, Presleigh Loper, Luke Loper, and Oliva Loper all of Oxford, Mississippi. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Walter A. (Bud) and Jeanne Emerson Gafford; two brothers, Richard Gafford and Bobby Gafford; and one sister, Pam Gafford. In place of traditional flowers, the family has requested that monetary donations be given to the Shiloh Cemetery Fund. The Coleman Funeral Home of Oxford staff is committed to providing the highest level of care and attention to detail as they stand by the family during this challenging time. The community's support and online condolences can be shared on his Tribute Wall at www.colemanfuneralhome.com.

Michael Gafford

October 28, 1948 - May 14, 2024

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