June 24, 1924 – Dec. 27, 2020
Dorothy J. Allford ’53-A was born June 24, 1924, in Killona, Louisiana, and passed away Dec. 27, 2020, in Loma Linda, California at the age of 96. She and her family were blessed to have her caregivers, Gina Morales and family. Dr. Allford was a pioneer in her field and was the last survivor and second to the youngest of 12 children raised on a farm in Raceland, Louisiana. Two of her siblings died as babies, however, the 10 surviving children went on to lead very productive and extraordinary lives.
Dr. Allford had a hard life. She graduated from Martin Behrman High School in New Orleans, then Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge with a bachelor’s degree and was granted a scholarship to medical school at Loma Linda University in California. In 1953, she completed her Master of Public Health Degree with a specialty in physical medicine and rehabilitation, as one of only a few women in her graduating class, an extraordinary accomplishment. Dr. Allford never married nor had children, but she loved her family, friends, and her home in Loma Linda. As a member of the Seventh-day Adventist church, she was devoted to God, her church, and her community. She was also a published author about creation, produced two video documentaries on the detrimental effects of smoking, and researched baby birth defects. Her medical career of 40 years was in general practice and rehabilitation. Women like her helped pave the way for all women who wanted a meaningful profession. Even during her years of retirement, she continued to attend the Loma Linda University Annual Postgraduate Convention (APC) and classes.
Dr. Allford’s memorial service will be at 7th Day Sabbath Church (909-370-1311; 850 S. Via Lata, Ste. 109), Colton, CA on Tuesday, July 20, 2021 at 2pm.