Warner Alford, a former Ole Miss football player and longtime athletic director, died Friday at the age of 87 after a long illness, according to university officials.
Alford played guard and linebacker for the 1960 Ole Miss Rebels, a team that finished 10-0-1 and won the Grantland Rice National Championship, as voted by the Football Writers Association of America. The Rebels defeated Rice in the Sugar Bowl that season. Alford and team captain Jake Gibbs, a star quarterback, were named permanent captains of that team, which outscored opponents 280-60.
During his three seasons on the varsity squad, Ole Miss compiled a 29-3-1 record, winning two Sugar Bowls and a Gator Bowl. Alford, a McComb native, and Gibbs, from Grenada, became close friends and suite-mates in the athletic dorm during their college years. Their bond extended beyond football, with Gibbs recalling their friendship and Alford’s reputation as a people person.
Alford’s impact at Ole Miss extended into his roles as athletic director and coach. He was praised by former players and colleagues for his kindness and leadership. Ole Miss sports information director Langston Rogers called Alford “one of the all-time Ole Miss legends” and credited him with mentoring many in the athletic department.
Alford also played a role in fostering relationships among SEC rival schools. Mississippi State athletic director Larry Templeton described their friendship and mutual respect, noting Alford’s instrumental involvement in moving the Egg Bowl back to campus sites—a significant decision for Ole Miss and Mississippi State.
His influence extended to recruiting and mentorship. Randy Watkins, a former PGA Tour golfer, credited Alford with recruiting him to Ole Miss and delivering on promises to improve the golf program and facilities. Watkins went on to win the SEC individual championship and was a first-team All-American.
Alford’s lifelong friendship with Robert Khayat, who became Ole Miss chancellor, began as roommates during their freshman year. Khayat described Alford as a kind, sharp dresser, and a leader who loved to laugh and help others.
Warner Alford was married to Kay Swayze, daughter of Ole Miss baseball coach Tom Swayze. The couple was married for nearly 64 years and had three children. Kay cared for Alford during his battle with Alzheimer’s before her death last year.
He is survived by his sons Swayze and John, daughter Phyliss Alford Daniels, and seven grandchildren. Alford’s funeral is scheduled for 2 p.m. Tuesday at Oxford-University United Methodist Church, with visitation Monday evening at Waller Funeral Home and again on Tuesday before the service. Burial will follow at Oxford Memorial Cemetery. Memorials can be made to the Warner and Kay Alford Ole Miss Opportunity Endowment.
