WINDSOR – Bernard Dalton “Sonny” Williford, 89, of 547 Sans Souci Road, Windsor, passed away Friday, February 8, 2019 at his home.

Mr. Williford was born in Merry Hill on June 11, 1929, and was the son of the late Bernard Veigh and Mildred White Williford. He was a farmer who started working in the field before he could turn the mule around by himself at the end of the row. He retired roughly 60 years later. In retirement, he discovered a passion for woodworking; designing, crafting and hand-painting over 300 model airplanes and helicopters.

He was a proud Army veteran (1950 – ’53), attaining the rank of sergeant. During two tours of duty in Germany, he was struck with a life-long wanderlust that began with R&R trips all over Europe and went on to include five cross-country trips in the states with family and friends. His intrepid sense of direction assured that he never got lost, anywhere. He loved God, his wife, his family, farming, World War II history, the West, John Wayne, and he loved to laugh.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Ruth Smith, and brother, Joe Williford.

Surviving are his wife of 63 years, Nellie Mae Phillips Williford; a son, Steven Williford of Los Angeles, CA; two daughters, Sharon Mayhue and husband, Ricky, of Chesapeake, VA, and Christie Kennon and husband, James, of Windsor; and four grandchildren, Katie, Zack, Brandon and Bradley.

A memorial service was held at Merry Hill Baptist Church, where he was a life-long member, on Monday, February 11, conducted by his pastor, the Rev. Frank Thigpen.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the North Carolina Chapter of the American Heart Association; or Disabled Veterans National Foundation (www.dvnf.org); or Gideon’s National.

Miller Funeral Home & Crematory, 735 Virginia Road, Edenton, assisted the family and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.