George Brown Deford

George Brown DeFord, son of the late William and Mary Francis Brown DeFord was born September 24, 1916 in Baltimore, Maryland. He was the youngest of six siblings who have predeceased him. He departed this life on June 30, 2003 after a lengthy illness at the Tender Care Castle, 3901 Garrison Boulevard in Baltimore, Maryland.He received his education in the public schools of Baltimore City, specifically at Douglas High School. His early Christian education was experienced at Sharp Street Memorial United Methodist Church where he was a long time member and usher for thirty years. In 1993 he transferred his membership to Mount Zion United Methodist Church where his son Rev. Dr. George F. DeFord served as pastor and remained as an active member until his health prevented him from attending.George had a very strong work ethic. He became employed as a stock clerk with the Budlow’s Grocery Store subsequent to which he worked for Oriole’s Cafeteria. He gained full time employment with Western Electric where he worked as a machinist. His employment was interrupted due to his service in the United States Marine Corps during World War II. He served in the South Pacific Theater of Operations. Upon his discharge, he returned to Western Electric, from which he retired after forty years of employment.He married the former Inez Joan Hayes and out of this union six children were born: George F., Brenda J. (deceased), Larry H., Dennis G., Dianna L. and Terry L. His wife of forty-nine years predeceased him in January 1990.George, affectionately known as “Dad” and “George B.”, was a kind and generous man who firmly believed in getting as much education as possible. As a result, all of the children attended college with several of them earning graduate and post graduate degrees. Moreover, he loved his children and especially took pride in pushing the stroller with the twins around the neighborhood.He thoroughly enjoyed being a member and officer of various fraternal organizations and veteran groups: Prince Hall Masons, American Legion, Elks and Veterans of Foreign Wars 92. He was honored on July 9, 2000 as a member of outstanding service to Monumental Lodge #3.He leaves to mourn: four sons, George, Larry, Dennis and Terry; one daughter, Dianna; three daughters-in-law, Lila, Darlene and Myra; one son-in-law, Lilton Ayers; eight grandchildren, Christopher, Dennis, Derrick, Devin, Larry, Jose, Tamara and Travia; one great-grandson, Christopher; two step-grandsons, Andre and Dante; devoted nieces, Dr. Cecile DeFord, Constance Wise and Robinette Randolph; nephews, Sidney DeFord Jr. and Earl T. Hayes; The Valentines, The Hayes, and a host of other relatives and friends.

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George Brown Deford

September 24, 1916 - June 30, 2003