Celebrating Violet J. Alford-Patterson

Happy 99th Birthday to our beloved family matriarch and Queen, Violet Juliet Alford-Patterson. Brilliant, beautiful, sweet, and sassy, she embodies all the makings of an Alford Queen.

Affectionately known to many as “Aunt Vi,” she has faithfully served as a founder and curator of the Alford Family Reunion since its inception 51 years ago. Through her vision, leadership, and unwavering dedication, she hosted countless reunions and helped establish many of the traditions and processes that continue to keep our family connected today. In recognition of her extraordinary impact, she was honored in 2018 as the first recipient of the Alford Family Legacy Award, presented at the family reunion in Oklahoma City.

Aunt Vi’s professional and personal accomplishments are immeasurable. A lifelong educator and mentor, her commitment to service and community has shaped and uplifted generations, academically, spiritually, and personally. She is a proud graduate of Langston University, a life member of the Langston University National Alumni Association, Inc., a life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and a devoted 65+ year member of Morning Star Baptist Church.

Today, we celebrate her remarkable life, enduring leadership, and boundless love. This is just the first of many celebrations to come. Our family bond exists because of pillars like Aunt Vi, those who set the example, nurtured our connections, and ensured our legacy endured. We are tremendously blessed to honor and celebrate her.

Violet Alford Patterson is the daughter of Wesley Dow Alford and Emily Dunlap-Alford; and Granddaughter of Matthew Solomon Alford and Lucy Berry-Alford.

(Pictured below with her children L to R: James Adam Patterson, Gwynell Patterson Wilson, Lee Patterson, MD, Dr. Emily Patterson-Harris)

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