Anthony Bill Cranford

Anthony Bill Cranford, 64, of Clarendon passed away on Wednesday, July 29, 2026.

Family directed memorial services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026, at First Methodist Church in McLean with Rev. Thacker Haynes officiating.

Cremation and arrangements are under the direction of Robertson Funeral Directors of Clarendon.

Anthony was born on December 21, 1961, in Miami, Florida, to Billy Jack Cranford and Mercedes Alvarez. He grew up in Miami alongside his four sisters and graduated from high school before proudly enlisting in the United States Marine Corps, where he served until the mid-1980s.

Following his military service, Anthony moved to Arizona and began a career in masonry that spanned more than 40 years. He was known for his strong work ethic and dedication to his craft. In 2000, he married Elizabeth Cranford. Together they made their home in Clarendon in 2015, where they have been residents ever since. During the last six years, Anthony fulfilled his dream of owning and operating his own trucking company.

Anthony had a lifelong passion for cars, firearms, and airplanes. He especially cherished the time he spent with his children, making lasting memories through visits to military bases and museums. His love for history, service, and family was evident in the life he lived and the relationships he treasured.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Mercedes Alvarez.

He is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Cranford of Clarendon; three sons, Anthony Anderson of Miami, Florida, Rick James and wife Jessica of Parker, Colorado, and Ryan Cranford of Clarendon; four daughters, Melissa Anderson of Miami, Florida, Mersadez James and husband Jonathan Jenson of Greeley, Colorado, Elsa Babb of Miami, Florida, and Victoria Cranford of Clarendon; his father, Billy Jack Cranford; four sisters, Norma Jean Gonzalez, Carolyn Anderson, Gabby Alvarez, and Lala Armbrust; thirteen grandchildren, Emmett and Gabriel James; Mekah, Luna, Starr, Cerilla, and Octavia Jenson; Kayla, Max, and Logan Anderson; and Nate, Natalie, and Noel Babb. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Anthony will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his years of hard work, and the kindness and strength he shared with those who knew him.