Florence Alfred

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved Florence Ella Alfred, who departed this life on March 24, 2025. Born on November 24, 1947, in Coldwater, Mississippi, to Chester and Everlena Massey, Florence's journey was one of grace, creativity, and devotion to her family. As a child, Florence moved to Illinois with her parents, where she grew up in Zion and graduated from Zion Benton Township High School. Following high school, she pursued her passion for helping others by attending nursing school in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. While in Milwaukee, she met the love of her life, Donald Alfred. They married in 1968 and built a beautiful life together, raising their two children, Brian and Kimberly. They created a warm and loving home in Zion, surrounded by family and friends, hosting many joyous gatherings celebrating holidays and birthdays. Florence later expanded her education by taking business courses at the College of Lake County, which helped shape her long and dedicated career with the Great Lakes Naval Base as a Supply Contract Specialist, where she played an integral role in supporting military operations. Later in life, Florence moved to Georgia, where she transitioned into the field of education. She obtained her Para Pro certification and found immense joy and fulfillment working with autistic and disabled children in the elementary school system. She cherished the opportunity to make a difference in their lives, and through her work, she developed many long-term friendships with her colleagues. After a rewarding career in government service and education, she eventually retired, leaving a legacy of dedication, kindness, and service to others. Florence had a deep love for beauty and creativity, which she expressed through fashion, ceramics, pottery, gardening, and later in life, quilting. She had an exceptional talent for transforming spaces, always ensuring they radiated warmth and charm. Her love for gardening was unmatched—she took great pride in her annual flower garden and was fiercely competitive, always striving to outdo herself and others each year. She loved showcasing her vibrant blooms and spent much time outdoors admiring them. She also found joy in cooking for her family, and her cakes and pies became a signature of her warm hospitality. Above all, Florence was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She shared fifty-six wonderful years of marriage with her husband, Donald, who remained by her side through every season of life. She was a pillar of strength and love for her children, Brian Alfred (Waukegan, IL) and Kimberly Alfred (Dacula, GA), and took immense joy in her grandson, Brandon Alfred (Lawrenceville, Ga). She is also survived by her beloved siblings, Evelyn Massey, Kenneth Massey, and Michael (Angela) Massey, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her parents, Chester and Everlena Massey, and her brother, Chester Lee Massey Jr. Florence's presence brought warmth and beauty to everyone who knew her. Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit will continue to live on in her family and friends' hearts, the laughter shared over home-cooked meals, and the flowers that bloom each spring. Florence Ella Alfred's love, creativity, and generosity will never be forgotten. May she rest in eternal peace.

Tributes

Florence Alfred

March 24, 2025