JIMMY WILLIE GAFFORD

1943-2025

Jimmy Willie Gafford, 81 years, 4 months and 18 days, of Bedias, TX passed away Wednesday; February 26, 2025 at his home. A time of visitation was scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, March 3, 2025 at Day Funeral Home Chapel and a private family burial will follow at a later date at Rock Prairie Cemetery.

Jimmy was born on October 8, 1943 in Madisonville, TX to Willie Ray Gafford and Bertie Leola (Cheatham) Gafford. He graduated from Madisonville High School in 1962 and soon married Imogene (Emert) Gafford and they were married for over fifty-eight years.

Jimmy served his country proudly in The United States Army during the Vietnam War until he was honorably discharged in 1968. During his enlistment, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, The Vietnam Service Medal, and The Army Commendation Medal.

Jimmy was the longtime ranch manager of The Vick Ranch; and in his retirement; he enjoyed reading, puzzle books, gardening, and a good game of dominos.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; his granddaughter, Alyx Rae Gafford; and his brothers, Melvin Ray Gafford, Bobby Gafford, and Jerry Gafford.

Jimmy is survived by his children, Jana Wonders and her husband, Dustin and Johnny Gafford; his sisters, Louise Adams and Lettie Ann Emert and her husband, James; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.