Joe Forrest Todd

Joe Forrest Todd, a steadfast pillar of his community and a man of unwavering faith, was called home to be with the Lord on December 27, 2023, after a valiant battle with an extended illness. Born in the humble beginnings of Hamilton Cross Roads on October 9, 1936, Joe's journey through life was a testament to his strength, intelligence, and selfless nature.

Joe was a beacon of light to all who knew him, embodying the very essence of what it means to be faith-filled. He stood firm in his beliefs, his life a reflection of the scripture, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith," as penned by the Apostle Paul in 2 Timothy 4:7. It was this unshakeable faith that guided him through each season of his life, from his youthful days in Brundidge to his final years in Dothan, Alabama.

He was a cherished son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Joe was preceded in death by his devoted parents, Lockard Dewey Todd and Essie D. Isler Todd. He is survived by his brothers, Rev. William Max Todd and Rev. Gene Foy Todd. In 1955, Joe lovingly married Sherry Wilson, and together they were blessed with two children, Debra Todd (Bill) RouLaine and Dewey Wilson (Annette) Todd. His heart found love again with Rebecca Turner, with whom he shared his son, Joe (Denise) Goldman. In 1998, he united with Edria Scruggs, marking a partnership that flourished for 25 years. Her children are Michael (Teresa) Renfroe and Lee (Amanda) Renfroe, and grandchildren, Lilly Belle Renfroe and Brayden Myles Renfroe.

Joe's professional life was as diverse as it was distinguished. A proud veteran, he served with honor in the US Air Force with the 280th Combat Communications Squadron. His commitment to public service continued with the Montgomery Police Department, before he advanced his career with the Alabama Board of Corrections, rising through the ranks to Warden. Upon retirement, Joe returned to his roots in agriculture, reviving the family tradition of syrup making, a practice dating back to 1835, and a legacy he proudly passed on to the next generation.

A man of the community, Joe's contributions were felt beyond his professional endeavors. He was a stalwart member of the Boy Scouts of America and a devoted congregant of Headland First Baptist Church. His retirement years were spent tending to the land he loved, surrounded by the laughter of his grandchildren, Haley Todd (Max) Vandervort, Wilson Matthew (Tori) Todd, and E4, ETN Karcher Goldman, and the joyous presence of his great-grandchild, Grayson William Todd.

Joe's life was rich with interests that reflected his character. His faith was the cornerstone upon which he built his life, and his self-confidence and remarkable memory made him a friend to all. He lived by the adage "waste not, want not," a motto that spoke to his practical nature. Joe was a storyteller at heart, often sharing tales imbued with wisdom and wit, his stubborn streak ensuring that things were done just right.

As we prepare to celebrate Joe's life at 11 am on Saturday, December 30, 2023, at Headland First Baptist Church, we remember a man who was more than the sum of his parts. Dr. Cecil Sanders will preside over the service, ensuring that Joe's spirit is honored in a manner befitting a man of his stature. Joe will find his final resting place at Mt. Zion Baptist Church Cemetery, where his legacy will continue to inspire. The family will receive friends at the church on Saturday from 10-11 am. In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be made to The Gideons International, www.gideons.org.

In the words of the great evangelist, Billy Graham, "My home is in Heaven. I'm just traveling through this world." Joe Forrest Todd has completed his earthly journey, leaving behind a trail of love, devotion, and service that will forever be etched in the hearts of those he touched. Let us hold fast to the memories of a life lived fully, a life lived with purpose, and a life lived for others.