We remember, we mourn, we honor; we celebrate and commemorate the life and legacy of Fred Edward Dunford who lived life with fullness of faith, integrity, kindness, courage and humor.

Chief Warrant Officer Two, Fred Edward Dunford, US Army (Ret), went home to be with Jesus on August 13, 2022, exactly one month after celebrating his 55th wedding anniversary with the love of his life, Louise. He was the third born child of Rufus and Mamie (Foleno) Dunford. Born in Jewel Ridge, WV on January 30, 1932, he was a resident of Newport News for 52 years. He graduated from Big Creek High School in War, WV, Class of '49. Upon graduation, Fred began his 23 year career in the Army Military Police Corps, retiring as a Criminal Investigation Division Special Agent. Fred earned numerous awards and decorations to include the Bronze Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army of Occupation Medals for both Germany and Japan, and the Vietnam Service and Campaign Medals.After his military retirement Fred continued in criminal justice for James City County as a criminal investigator for 13 years. After more than 35 years of law enforcement service he retired but continued serving his community through Private Investigating and his personal favorite, instructing civic and church groups on constitutional law and First Amendment issues. In 1971 Fred joined Victory Baptist Church; the beginning of a joy filled life serving the Lord. In 1990 Fred transferred membership to Maranatha Baptist Church in Yorktown and gave the remainder of his life serving the Lord and others.

He is survived by his adoring wife, Louise (Stephens) Dunford of 55 years; children, Stephanie Smith, Melanie Armstrong(David), Zeke Martens (Tracy), Michele Dunford Hawkins (Mark); grandchildren, Joe, Dan, Madison (Matthew), Seth, Jordan (Nicole), Olivia (Jordan) and Casey; great-grandchildren, Madelyn, Liam, Laken and Prince; siblings, Dave, Carol, Peg, Anthony; and a host of nieces and nephews who are left to cherish his memory. He is preceded in death by his parents, Rufus and Mamie; siblings, Dorothy, Carlis, Luther, Louise, Bob, Christine and Jim Dunford.

We will receive family and friends on Tuesday, August 23, 2022 from 6 to 7 PM at W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home, 210 Harpersville Road, Newport News. The funeral will be held at Maranatha Baptist Church, Yorktown, on Wednesday, August 24, 2022, at 10 AM. Burial will follow at 3 PM at Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk.

The family wishes to thank the love and support from Hampton Veterans Administration, Riverside Hospice, Amedysis Hospice and Concordia Nursing Agency. With a heartfelt thanks, to Ray who went above and beyond in the care of Fred. You will always be part of our family and we love you!

Arrangements by W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home.