Search by Name

Search by Name

Marvin Wolford Obituary

WILMORE - Marvin S. Wolford, 73, of Lowry Lane, KY went to be with his Lord on Mon. afternoon, Apr. 24, 2006 at Central Baptist Hospital in Lexington. Born Dec. 28, 1932 to Stanley and Alice Wolford of Abingdon, IL, Marvin married Jean Roberson of Abingdon Dec. 19, 1957. They were married in NY on the "Bride and Groom" TV show. She survives. Marvin is also survived by 3 sons, Tom (Donna), Fredericksburg, VA; Steve (Debbie), Irvine, CA; Andy (Dana), Wilmore, KY and 5 grandsons and a granddaughter; his brother Arthur and sister Patricia (Dunlap), both of Abingdon. After Abingdon High School, Marvin attended Western Illinois State Teacher's College (University), completing his degree in Agriculture Education at the University of Illinois. He attended Asbury Theological Seminary, receiving his Master's of Divinity at Candler's School of Theology, Emory University. He earned his Doctorate in Missions at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. With a passion for the people of Africa, Marvin spent most of his life with Jean in Congo, with the United Methodist Mission Board. He did many things – big-game hunter, pilot, mechanic, builder, evangelist – but at heart he was a pastor. His burning desire was to introduce people to Christ, and together with Jean, their life's work, translating the Bible into the Uruund language, took 38 years. Since retiring from active missionary service, Marv and Jean made Wilmore, KY their home. Marv said his hobbies included Jean, mechanics and reading. Memorial Services will be held simultaneously in the Wilmore United Methodist Church, and the Mulunguishi Seminary in Congo on Wed., Apr. 26, 7 pm (1 am in Africa). The visitation will be from 10-11 am at the Abingdon United Methodist Church followed by the service at 11 am. Burial will be held at the Abingdon Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Marvin Wolford Congo Ministry. Hinchcliff-Pearson-West Abingdon Chapel is in charge of arrangements in Abingdon, HAGER & CUNDIFF FUNERAL HOME W. Oak St., in charge of local arrangements. hagerandcundifffunerals.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Lexington Herald-Leader on Apr. 26, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Marvin Wolford

Not sure what to say?





6 Entries

Micki Gill

April 29, 2006

I was saddened by the passing of Andy's father( thats what we always called him).I'll always remember how he liked his brown sugar and small milk with his oatmeal.How he encouraged me after my eye surgery due to my car wreck because he had just had the same surgery.He was a very special person He will be greatly missed. Your in our thoughts,Micki (from Oak Street Diner)

vickie at oak street diner

April 28, 2006

we at oak street diner in nicholasville,ky. are sadden to hear about (andy's dad) marvin's death everyone is in our prayers.

he will be greatly missed at the diner

Marilyn Clark Brownlie

April 26, 2006

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We feel as if we knew him, for Pat spoke of him with love and pride during our years at Monmouth and afterwards in her letters.

Vesta Garwood

April 26, 2006

I knew Marvin as a young boy growing up on his family's farm in Abingdon. I was his sister's college roommate and spent many wonderful time with his family. They have always been a special part of my life. Although I didn't see much of Marvin and Jean after they went to Africa, Pat kept me apprised of their accomplishments of which there were many. My love and prayers are with all of your family.

Duane Werner

April 26, 2006

I was saddened to read of Marvin's passing. He was always an inspiration when he was back in the states on leave. I remember the times he visited us at Grace UMC in Decatur and alwaya appreciated his and Jean's ministry. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Steve Seamands

April 26, 2006

Dear Jean and Family,

Know that Carol and I are praying for you as you grieve the loss of your beloved husband and father. I am grieving too. I will miss Marvin's Christlike spirit, encouragement, and passion for missions. Yet I am so thankful that He is now with Jesus in whose presence is fullness of joy.

Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results

Make a Donation
in Marvin Wolford's name

Memorial Events
for Marvin Wolford

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Marvin's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Marvin Wolford's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more