Stephen Michael Alford

Stephen Michael Alford, 67, of Miramar Beach, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.

Stephen was born December 22, 1958, in Newport News, Virginia, the son of Jeanne and William J. “Joe” Alford, Jr. He graduated from James Madison University, where he studied business — the foundation for a life built on business, land, and an abiding love of the place he called home.

A real estate entrepreneur and avid land enthusiast, Stephen had a deep and genuine love of timberland and the natural beauty of the Florida Panhandle. He cherished its resources and its wild places, and few knew the land or loved it as he did.

Those who knew Stephen knew a man who was loyal, persistent, and willing to help anyone. Those qualities defined how he lived, how he worked, and how he showed up for the people around him.

Stephen was, by his own measure and others’, a complicated man. His life held hard chapters, including years spent in prison, but those who knew him closely understood that his intentions were good ones, and he found his way back to what mattered most. He passed on good terms with his family — a peace that meant a great deal to him and to those who loved him.

Above all, Stephen treasured connecting with his children and held an immense love for his three granddaughters. They were his greatest joy, and the time he shared with them mattered to him more than anything.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Cheri Alford, who passed in 2002 after a courageous five-year battle with breast cancer; his parents, Jeanne and Joe Alford; his brother, Joey; and his nephew, Benjamin Brand.

Stephen is survived by his children, Megan Alford and her husband, Steve; Chandler Alford; and Alexander Alford and his wife, Elizabeth; his three granddaughters; and his siblings, Thomas Alford of Hampton, Va., and Bonnie Alford-Restaino of Suffolk, Va.

A celebration of Stephen’s life will be held privately with family.