Jimmy Coleman Alford, 72, of Marion passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, October 8, 2022. He was born in Marion County on August 3, 1950, the son of the late Pearlie Dubose Alford, Jr. and the late Lois Mae Coleman Alford.

Jimmy was a graduate of Rains-Centenary High School and spent all his life in Marion County. He was a member of Centenary Baptist Church and also enjoyed attending Friendship Baptist Church. Jimmy was one of the easiest people to know and people loved him because of his inviting personality and infectious smile. His love for his family, his friends, and his Clemson Tigers knew no bounds. He considered his daughter and grandchildren his greatest love and spending time with them brought him much joy. In addition to his family, his friends were also an important part of his life. He enjoyed drinking coffee and socializing with them at the "front table" at Jimmy B's Restaurant.

Jimmy spent most of his adult life in law enforcement and with his passing the City of Mullins lost one of their most dedicated former officers. He served the community with integrity and honor for over 31 years, both as an officer and as police chief. Jimmy epitomized what an officer should be. He was tough when faced with a challenge, understanding when dealing with the people of the community and compassionate when helping people during difficult times. When he retired from Mullins Police Department, his passion for police work took him in a new direction, as he worked for the Florence Regional Airport Police Department for 11 years. He will always be remembered for his dedication and selflessness.

During this time, his love of people and desire to work led him to Express Coin Laundromat. He worked at both the Mullins and Marion locations for over twenty years assisting people and keeping things in order.

In addition to his parents, Jimmy was predeceased by an infant son, Jamie Coleman Alford.

He is survived by his daughter, Sara Elizabeth Alford of Simpsonville, South Carolina; two grandchildren, Natalia and Kamren McDavid; the mother of his children, Libby Grantham of Mullins; close friends, Bobo and Shannon Ammons of Centenary; his beloved dog, Shelby, and numerous other friends.

A service to celebrate Jimmy's life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 15, 2022 in the chapel of Meares Funeral Home in Mullins. The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the service.

If you would like to remember Jimmy, the family suggests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Marion County Animal Shelter, 123 Dog and Cat Court, Mullins, South Carolina 29574.

An online guestbook is available at www.mearesfh.com.