Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Arlington National Cemetery

Velorse Gafford of Bowie, MD, formerly of Fort Washington, MD passed away from Alzheimer's Disease on Sunday, August 29, 2021 in Bowie, MD at the age of 92. She had battled with Alzheimer's the last nine years.

She was born March 29, 1929 in Decatur, MS  to Willie and Jessie May McMullan. She earned her high school diploma and married Col. Travis Gafford, USA(Ret.) on June 3, 1949.  They traveled the world together with the Army. They lived in Taiwan, Japan and Okinawa. She was a military wife and homemaker. 

She enjoyed painting, sewing, playing bridge, traveling, entertaining, and spending time with her family especially her grandchildren. She was also active in her church on Andrews Air Force Base. 

Velorse was preceded in death by her husband, Travis Gafford. She is survived by her sons, Richard Gafford of Bowie, MD and Michael Gafford of Hercules, CA; her grandchildren, Travis Gafford of Hyattsville, MD and Kristin Gafford of Bowie, MD. 

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, October 22, 2021 at Arlington National Cemetery. Please arrive at the Administration Building by 10:15 a.m. with one's own transportation and Identification for anyone 16 years old and older. 

Velorse Gafford

Velorse Gafford

Velorse Gafford Services

Service

Reception