William Boyd Wolfington

William Boyd Wolfington, of Holbrook, Arizona died in the early morning hours of Easter Sunday, April 24, 2011 at the Flagstaff Regional Medical Center in Flagstaff, Coconino County, Arizona. He had just celebrated his 88th birthday.

Boyd, as he was known, was born on April 16, 1923 in Jerome, Yavapai County, Arizona to the late Wilber and Grace Ann (West) Wolfington. Just after his graduation from Flagstaff High School, Boyd enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II and served as an Aviation Machinist Mate, 1st Class in the Pacific Theater. Following his honorable discharge from the navy, Boyd enrolled himself at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff where he received his Bachelor's Degree.

Boyd's education served him well throughout his long life and he quickly became a familiar and friendly face at Holbrook High School where he was a favorite teacher to many of his students. Boyd taught at Holbrook High School for 30 years. When he retired, he was Head of the Industrial Arts Department which included the woodshop and metals classes. During his time at the high school, Boyd also coached its cross country track team for many years; even winning the State Championship one year. He was so proud of his athletes as well as ALL of his students.

Boyd had an incredible sense of community and felt a special stewardship to his friends and neighbors as he served in various capacities for the city of Holbrook. He served as a Councilman for the city of Holbrook for many years and was elected as its Mayor for a term. He and Dr. DeMarse built Holbrook's first public swimming pool and he ran it for several years, which kept him very busy during the summer months. Boyd also took an active role in the Hashknife Pony Express for many years. He was honored one year when he was voted as Holbrook's Man of The Year.

Boyd was a 49 year member of the Benevolent & Protected Order of Elk (B.P.O.E.), Holbrook Lodge #2450 and was one of its Past Exalted Rulers. He thoroughly enjoyed the comradery and friendship of his Elk brothers. He was also a member of the American Legion Holbrook Post #0037. Boyd was an avid outdoorsman and appreciated the experiences and joy that can only be found there. He loved hunting, camping and traveling. But even more than these things, he had a greater love for his family.

Boyd was married 33 years to Hazel Wolfington, and they were blessed with 2 beautiful children, Greg and Gwen. When his sister Clarabell died, he took on the role of "father" more so than that of "uncle" to her children: Jerry, EddiLou, Tom, Dan and Bev. Later, Boyd married Toots Defenback, who already had 3 children of her own: Kathy, Bill and Kim. He proved to be a loving step-father to them. Boyd's joy continued to grow with the birth of each grandchild. He lived a full life and will be greatly missed by all in so many ways. None, however, will miss him more than his own family.

Boyd Wolfington is survived by his 2 children: Greg (Cathy) Wolfington of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Gwen (Dave) Tilson of Mesa, Arizona; 5 grandchildren: Jeff (Karolyn) Wolfington, Jill (Brad) Stoddard, Steven (Liz) Wolfington, Jason (Heidi) Tilson, Allison (Ed) Beaver and 15 great-grandchildren. Along with his parents and sister, Boyd was preceded in death by his grandson, Trevor Boyd Wolfington.

A memorial service is pending at this time for Saturday, April 30, 2011 in Holbrook. Memorial contributions to "The Mission" in Holbrook have been suggested by his family.