John Pigford

John Pigford, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away peacefully on April 1, 2024, in Columbia, SC, leaving behind a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him.

Born on August 28, 1946, in Winston-Salem, NC, John was the son of John Thomas and Annie Lou Pigford. Growing up in Washington DC alongside his seven siblings – James, David, Ronnie, Ray, Shirley, Glenn, and Elaine, he embraced his role as a son and brother, working tirelessly to support his family.

On June 26, 1982, John exchanged vows with his devoted wife Louise, embarking on a journey of love and commitment that spanned decades. Together, they created a warm and nurturing home in Neeses, South Carolina, where John's love knew no bounds. His legacy lives on through his children: Antoinette (Charles), John Jr. (Kim), Jackie, Adrian (Tamika), and Michelle (Dwayne), as well as his 16 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren. While he was a father to six biological children, his nurturing spirit extended to many others whom he embraced as his children.

He was preceded to heaven by his parents, John Thomas and Annie Lou, his brother James, his sister Ronnie, and his son David, leaving behind a sense of loss and longing.

A man of profound faith, John found solace and strength in his relationship with the Lord, exemplifying grace, humility, and a boundless capacity for love. He was most recently a faithful member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church. He was a selfless and loving individual, always putting his family first. As a provider, he worked tirelessly to ensure the well-being of his loved ones.

John's departure was sudden and unexpected, but still on his terms as we expected from him.  He has been a rock to many, a master at storytelling and making people laugh, and even a glorious pain in the neck, to what I'm sure is a small select few (because no matter what happened between you in your lives, once you were marked as important to him, he'd be by your side if you needed him). He was a source of unwavering support, a fountain of wisdom, and a beacon of hope in times of darkness.

As we mourn the loss of a beloved patriarch, we take comfort in the memories we shared and the legacy he leaves behind.  John’s spirit will forever resonate deeply in the hearts of those who loved him, and his memory will serve as a guiding light in the journey ahead.  In his absence, we find solace knowing that he is at peace, reunited with loved ones who have gone before him, and watching over us with love from above. 

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