Olivia Alford was born in Atlanta, Georgia, to the late Lamon and Margaret Alford on June 2, 1938. At the age of 9, Olivia relocated to Birmingham, Alabama where she developed into adulthood under the guidance and love of her mother and bonus father the late S.T. Stodghill. She accepted Christ into her heart at an early age. For the past 50 years until her health failed she was devoted member and loyal servant at New Pilgrim Baptist Church.

Olivia attended Hooper City High School in Birmingham, Alabama. She continued her studies and completed coursework at Parker High School in Accounting, Algebra and Basic Business Procedures. She completed LUTC (Life Underwriters Training Course) and attained State Of
Alabama Insurance Licensure.

In June 1964, Olivia began employment with Booker T. Washington Insurance Co. as a debit manager and ultimately becoming a sales representative for Zion Memorial Garden as well. During her many years with the company, Olivia was a hard worker and relentless employee
committed to excellence in her duties. Often yielding award winning performances in sales and collections. Olivia Alford was a committed follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. She was a willing servant and eager to help anyone and anywhere she could. She was a founding member of the New Pilgrim Greeters and served faithfully until her health declined. Olivia was active with the Benevolent Committee, the Centennial Committee, the Christian Aid Society and the Bread of Life Ministry (NPBC) and served as Project Coordinator for Needy Families of North Birmingham District via Booker T. Washington Insurance Co.

Olivia's caring and nurturing spirit was most evident in her love for her children. June, Connie and "Freddy" were her joy; and she thrived on her love for them. Caring, nurturing and challenging them to work hard, and to always be and do their best. She was a living beacon of the power of prayer and committed life of faith.

On January 13, 2025, she surely received her, "Well done my good and faithful servant", from the Lord and departed this earthly journey for everlasting life and eternal peace in Heaven. Her exemplary life and memories will be treasured by her son, Lewis F. Chisholm (Karen) of Murfreesboro, TN,; daughters, June C. Morris (Wardell), Connie C. Hatcher (Ronald Sr.) of Birmingham, AL ; grandchildren, Ronald C. Hatcher Jr, Nicolas K. Gadson of Birmingham, AL, Olivia L. Gadson of Los Angeles, CA , Donnica N. Chisholm of Birmingham, AL, Ashley G. Andrews (Daniel) of Clifton, VA and Jack R. Hatcher (Laura) of Mt. Juliet, TN ; brothers Walter Stodghill, Terry Stodghill (Rosa) of Birmingham, AL ; sisters Mavis Saunders of Newark, NJ, Gloria Stodghill, Connie Watson of Birmingham, AL and Joyce Hargrove (Terry) of Montgomery, AL; 18 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, great nieces, great nephews and friends