MSgt. James W. Radford Sr.

Master Sergeant James W. Radford Sr. USAF (retired), of Christiansburg, passed away on September 11, 2018, at the age of 85. James was born in Roanoke, VA on March 31, 1933. He was the only child of Samuel and Annabell Radford.
The family moved to Pulaski, VA in 1942. James graduated from Pulaski High School in May 1950, joining the Marines that same month. Leaving the Marines in 1952 he then worked at the Radford Arsenal and married Betty Lee Farmer in 1953. Missing the military life, James joined the Air Force in 1956 moving to Tyndall Air Force Base in Panama City, FL. James moved his family to several duties stations, including Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines. His final duty station was Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland, retiring from the Air Force on November 1, 1974.
James had an opportunity to join his uncle, Albert Conner, in a mobile home park venture that same year. He, along with his wife Betty, managed their rental properties until retiring from that business in May, 2002.
James loved his military career, golf tournaments with his wife, watching all sports on television, military reunions and motorcycle trips with his son.
MSGT Radford is survived by his wife Betty; son, James W. Jr. of Radford; daughters, Donna Lee Radford of Crofton, MD and Connie Harless of Christiansburg; grandchildren, James W. Radford III and wife Aysha of Cary, NC, Lisa Lynn Vaught and husband Chad of Christiansburg, Michelle Radford of Crofton, MD, Jason Bradley Harless and partner Christine of Lusby, MD, Melissa Bennett and husband Trevor of Christiansburg. He is also survived by seven great-grandchildren.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, September 22, 2018, from noon to 1 p.m. at Horne Funeral Home. The Funeral Service will begin at 1 p.m. in the Chapel, with Philip Johnston officiating. Graveside with military honors will follow in Highland Memory Gardens Mausoleum, Dublin. Immediately following the burial there will be a gathering at the Radford Inn across from Harvey’s Chevrolet in Radford to celebrate the life of James.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Alzheimers’ Association.