Alan Handford Obituary

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Alan Scott Handford, age 63, of Kinston, N.C., who peacefully departed on September 24, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Alan faced numerous health challenges throughout his life with remarkable strength and resilience, demonstrating an unwavering spirit.
Born to Richard Clarke Handford and Muriel Day Handford, Alan grew up in the Virginia Beach area, where he developed a passion for surfing and the ocean, which was emblematic of the adventurous, carefree spirit that he carried with him throughout his life.
Alan was a proud graduate of First Colonial High School in Virginia Beach, Va., class of 1979. He attended ECPI University in Virginia Beach, where his passion for technology led him to a fulfilling career at International Business Machines (IBM) in Manassas, VA. During his tenure with IBM, he continued his education at the IBM College of Maryland, making lasting contributions to the field he loved.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Brenda Handford, and two devoted sons, A. Scott Handford Jr. of Raleigh, N.C., and Brendan Scearce Handford of Zebulon, N.C. He was also a proud grandfather of five cherished grandchildren: Taylor Grace Osborne (16), Talon Jacob Hathaway (16), Averi Lynne Handford (14), Abel Gavin Handford (12), and Quinn Rose Elizabeth Handford (9). As a devoted father, Alan treasured every moment spent with his children, whether it was guiding them through the Boy Scouts, where he proudly supported Scott in achieving his Eagle Scout rank and Brendan in earning his Life Achievement Award, or bonding over their shared love of music at concerts and festivals.
A man of deep faith, Alan was committed to his relationship with Jesus Christ and to serving his community. He held the position of Deacon at Calvary Presbyterian Church of America in Raleigh, N.C., led numerous mission trips, and served on the program staff for Mission to the World. Through these roles, he brought hope and aid to families in West Virginia, Cherokee, N.C., and Mexico, spreading the gospel with his hard work, relentless spirit, and powerful testimony.
Alan is survived by his beloved mother, Muriel Day Handford; his brother, Richard Clarke Handford, Jr.; and his sisters, Robin Anne Barrett of Fredericksburg, Va., and Cathy Day Handford of Fredericksburg, Va. He was predeceased by his father, Richard Clarke Handford.
Alan's legacy of kindness, generosity, and love will continue to shine through the countless lives he touched. A celebration of his life will be held at 10:00 am on October 19, 2024, at St. Aidan's Episcopal Church, Virginia Beach, Virginia, where family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a remarkable man who lived fully and loved deeply.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Alan's honor to the Western North Carolina Association of Firefighters to help with the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, ensuring that his legacy of compassion and service lives on.
Donate Here: https://tinyurl.com/Western-NC-FF-Aid
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