News Summary
Shreveport, Louisiana, mourns the loss of Michael D. Williford, a dedicated musician and educator who passed away on January 13, 2025. His lifelong commitment to music and teaching inspired many in the community. After a successful career in music education, he transitioned to nursing, where he was recognized for his care. Friends and family will gather to celebrate his life on March 23, 2025, at a graveside service, honoring his legacy of compassion and dedication.
Michael D. Williford: A Life Filled with Music and Compassion
Shreveport, Louisiana, is coming together to remember a truly remarkable man, Michael D. Williford, who sadly passed away on January 13, 2025, at the age of 74 after battling complications from ALS. Michael’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with melodies, compassion, and dedication, leaving behind a legacy that resonates in the hearts of many.
A Musical Journey
Born on September 19, 1950, in the heart of Shreveport, Michael discovered his passion for music early on. After graduating from Woodlawn High School, he pursued his love for music at Northwestern State University of Louisiana, where he earned both a B.A. and M.A. in Music Education. Not one to stop there, he continued to chase his dreams by completing a Doctor of Musical Arts at The University of Iowa.
Throughout his life, Michael shared his incredible talent for music with others. He served as a pianist at Sunset Acres Baptist Church during his teenage years, accompanying the youth choir. Michael didn’t stop there—he lent his musical skills to the First Baptist Church of Westernport, Maryland, for three wonderful years, bringing joy and harmony to the community.
Teaching and Inspiration
Michael was not just a performer; he was also an inspiring educator. His teaching career led him across several institutions, including Potomac State College of West Virginia University, Cornell College of Iowa, and Centenary College of Louisiana. He even spent a year at C.E. Byrd High School in Shreveport, nurturing the next generation of musicians. His talent also shined through as he played clarinet with esteemed groups, including the Northwestern-Natchitoches Symphony and the Shreveport Symphony.
A New Path in Nursing
A Loving Community and Support
Michael cherished family, friends, and his long-time partner, Bruce G. Wiggs, who stood by his side through thick and thin during his illness. His compassion and love extended beyond individual relationships, reaching into every corner of the communities he was part of, including the loving families and friends of Bruce in Colorado and Massachusetts. Michael valued these connections dearly.
Remembering Michael
Michael is survived by his Uncle Johnie James Pruett, along with first, second, and third cousins, who carry on his memory. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur F. Williford and Margie Pruett Williford, and several relatives, including grandparents and uncles. His family is forever grateful for the compassionate support from Freedom Hospice and Palliative Care during his final days.
Final Farewell
Friends, family, and community members are invited to celebrate Michael’s life at a graveside service scheduled for March 23, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Centuries Memorial Cemetery in Shreveport, Louisiana, led by Dr. Brandon Scott Pruett. Everyone is encouraged to share in this moment of remembrance and reflection.
In honor of Michael’s legacy, those wishing to contribute can support the ALS Association or a charity of their choice, continuing his spirit of generosity and compassion.
Michael D. Williford’s life may have come to an end, but the music, love, and hope he shared will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew him.
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Additional Resources
- Legacy: Bob Rivers Obituary
- Wikipedia: Music Education
- Shreveport Times: Obituary of a Local Figure
- Google Search: Michael D. Williford
- Rose & Graham: Brandon Beasley Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nursing
- Tukios: Obituary Profile Photo
- Google News: Michael D. Williford
- Rose-Neath: Dr. Benjamin Foster Obituary
- Google Scholar: Michael D. Williford
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
