Marlyn Cranford

Marlyn Cranford, 81, of Jackson, passed away June 26, 2019 at Jackson Medical Center. He was born August 29, 1937 to Gurtice Daniel Cranford and Arah Smith Cranford in Arab. His law enforcement career included service with the Alabama State Troopers, Chief of Police with Jackson Police Department and Head of Security at Ciba in McIntosh. His “claim to fame” came with the arrest of the Allman Brothers band as they passed through Jackson on April 22, 1971. His passions included Alabama football and as a member of the AlaBigbee Bassmaster’s club, he earned numerous trophies fishing, all of which were displayed proudly in his home. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and his many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 46 years, Margaret Cabaniss Cranford and siblings, James Cranford, Linda Harrison and Ann Wright.

He is survived by his children, Shannon (Brett) Odom, Marty (Sheila) Cranford; grandchildren, Garrison Odom, Lauren C. (John) Ellison, Hayden Cranford, Gaines Odom and numerous other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 29, 2019 at Leroy Baptist Church with the Rev. Fred Odom and Dr. Brian Graham officiating. Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. on Friday at Lathan Funeral Home in Jackson and then again, an hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will follow the service at Trinity Memorial Gardens in Jackson with Lathan Funeral Home directing.

Pallbearers will be Hayden Cranford, Gaines Odom, Garrison Odom, Brian Graham, Triton Graham, Charles Burge, Bill Taylor and John Ellison.

Honorary pallbearers will be Bama Garris, Billy Griffin, Mike Whitehead, Sam Hughston, Joe Langley, John Gaddis, Ed Catrett, Bill Pearce, Dane Daugherty, The rest of the crew at the Palace, Dennis Morgan and Charles Cabaniss.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the donor’s charity of choice.

Condolences may be offered at www.lathanfuneralhome.com.