James Weldon Alford

James W. “Boo” Alford passed away on July 22, 2026. He was 93 years old.

Boo will be remembered fondly for his jokes and his devotion to his country. His greatest joy came from all of his acts of service which shows through his lifelong career with the United States Army. He was a proud veteran and served for over 30 years as a member of the famed 82nd Airborne and Special Forces and retired as a Command Sergeant Major. He earned several degrees throughout his life, including a Bachelor of Science from Campbell University, Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice, and a Master’s Degree of Human Resources from Pepperdine University. Additionally, he was in the first graduating Sergeant Major Academy Class in 1973. He served on the Board of Directors for Fort Jackson Federal Credit Union and was an Elected Chairman of the American Society for Industrial Security Central Carolina in 1984 and 1987.

In addition to his academic accolades and service to his country, he also was a member of the First Tuesday Republican Club in Columbia, South Carolina, Special Forces Association Chapter #34 for South Carolina, served on the Veterans Trust Fund and was designated as a Certified Protectional Professional (C.P.P) by examinations. He was also the CEO of Books by Alford, had a vast knowledge of South East Asia, and even had working knowledge of both Korean and Vietnamese languages.

He will be missed by all who survive him – his children, siblings, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A visitation will be held on Friday, July 31 at 10am at Thompson Funeral Home in Columbia, SC 29209. A graveside service will follow at 11am at Greenlawn Memorial Park, 845 Leesburg Road Columbia, SC 29209.