John Summerford, the leader of a respected Alabama trucking company, passed away at the age of 74 after grappling with a recent illness.

Background: Summerford took over the family business, Summerford Truck Line Inc., in the 1970s. Under his leadership, the company expanded significantly, reaching all 48 contiguous states.

• He returned to Ashford, Alabama after attending Troy University to dive into farming and, later, the trucking industry.
• By 1978, John was guiding the company, eventually growing it into an operation with over 250 employees.

More enterprises: Not stopping at trucks, he also founded Summerford Pallet Co., Inc., and Summerford Cattle Co., Inc. in 1994.

• He cherished raising cattle, often reflecting on his spiritual connections as a cattleman reporting WDHN.
• His faith and family were central to his life, surviving by his wife of 57 years and their extended family.

Current status: Summerford leaves behind a trucking legacy that touches communities nationwide through his contributions to the industry.