WINDSOR – Kent Williford, 58, of 204 Crescent Drive, Windsor, died Saturday, May 16, 2015 at Vidant Bertie Memorial Hospital, Windsor. He was born May 31, 1956 in Windsor to Jimmy and Barbara Williford.

Kent (aka “Cheese”) was best known for his big heart that beat for his family. He was a strong man of faith and prayed all day everyday as he rode up and down the rows on his tractor.  His prayers were always for his family and others.

Kent was a member of Cashie Baptist Church and Cashie Country Club where he was a dedicated member and served frequently on the Board of Directors. He farmed with his father and son for over 40 years. Williford Farms, Inc. grew cotton, peanuts and tobacco. From 1983 until 1989 Kent owned and operated the “Carolina House Restaurant”.

Kent was a very humble man and was a great role model.  He was an outstanding natural athlete in all sports.  He was presented the “Athlete of the Year” award back to back in 1973-74 at Bertie High School.  Kent lettered in football as a walk-on freshman at East Carolina University in 1974. “Cheese” also was an avid golfer and duck hunter.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 19, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at Cashie  by the Rev. Bobby Strother. Burial will follow in Edgewood Cemetery.

Survivors include his wife of 17 years, Linda Futrelle Williford of the home; son, Kyle Williford (Amy) of Windsor; daughter, Kaley W. Wilson (Matt) of Knoxville, TN; son, David Wilson of Gainsville, VA; daughter, Katie Meshaw of Chapel Hill; mother and father, Jimmy and Barbara Williford of Windsor; sister, Trudy W. Bowen of Greenville; brothers, Rodney Williford of Bethel, and Marshall Williford of Edenton; and grandchildren, Layla Williford, Eli Kent Williford and Chloe Wilson.

The family will receive friends from the home. Memorial gifts may be made to the Kent “Cheese” Williford Memorial Fund, Cashie Golf and Country Club, PO Box 297, Windsor, NC27983.

Online condolences may be directed to www.walkerfh.net.  Walker Funeral Home, Windsor is serving the Williford family.