Raymond Earl Bedford

Raymond Earl Bedford died peacefully in his home after a battle with cancer. Memorial services will be at 10:00 AM, Wednesday, February 6, 2008 at Latter Rain Worship Center, 305 E 19th, Odessa with Chaplain Larry Hood, officiating. Burial will be held, with full military honors, Friday, February 8, 2008 at 11:00 AM at the Fort Sill National Cemetery, Elgin, Oklahoma.Raymond was born April 20, 1932 to Ray and Bertha Bedford of Big Spring, TX. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Sherry Bedford and son, Raymond Glenn Bedford.He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Helen; his three sons and their spouses, Donald and Maria Bedford of Lawton, Oklahoma, James and Penny Bedford of Lochbuie, Colorado and William and Latona Bedford of Midland. He is also survived by fifteen grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.Raymond Bedford spent 20 years in the Army, where he served as a military policeman and he was in the field artillery, where he served as a drill sergeant. He was awarded two Bronze Star medals, one was with valor and an Army commendation, while serving in Vietnam. He was awarded a second Army commendation medal and many other awards during his service. After he was discharged from the military, he served on the Big Spring police and sheriff's departments. Raymond Bedford will be sorely missed by family and friends and all who knew him.Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at: www.npwelch.com,