Roll Call Tribute

Tammy Lynn (Praesel) Alford 

September 21, 1967 - February 26, 2025 

Tammy Lynn Praesel Alford passed away February 26th, 2025 at her home in Rockdale, Texas surrounded by family at the age of 57. Tammy was born September 21st, 1967, to John R. Praesel and Birdie Ullrich Praesel Kristoff in Rockdale, Texas. Her youth was spent on the family ranch and showing livestock which led her to achieving an Agricultural Education degree from Texas A&M University in 1990. She married her high school sweetheart, Charles Alford, in 1991, and they recently celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary. Together they raised two daughters–Johna Cheyenne and Jaclyn Sierra Alford.

Tammy was a devoted wife, mother, and servant of the Lord. As a teacher for 20 years, she gained a Master’s in Education and taught a wide variety of science subjects from the 6th grade level to high school. Beyond the classroom, Tammy mentored her students and instilled leadership as a sponsor for extracurricular activities like robotics, student council, UIL, and more. She was a member of Peace Lutheran Church in Rockdale and the Lexington Garden Club where she grew her adoration for both flower and vegetable gardening. Over the years, she shared her love of animals with her husband and daughters–raising cattle, pigs, rabbits, dogs, and too many barn cats to count. She especially had a soft spot for Brahman cattle. Tammy will be remembered for her tremendous faith which gave her strength, commitment to her family and community, her positive attitude, passion for live music, and love for all things southwestern.

She is survived by her husband, Charles Alford, her daughters, Johna and Jaclyn Alford, mother and stepfather, Birdie and James Kristoff, nephews, Clint and Garrett Allred, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Tammy was preceded in death by her father, John R. Praesel, sister, Debbie Praesel Brandt, grandparents, aunts and uncles, and her cousin, Nanette Praesel Roe.

Pallbearers: Clinton Allred, Garrett Allred, Roger Praesel, Doug Schlemmer, Tim Buscha and Christopher Woodward. Honorary Pallbearers: Rockdale Volunteer Fire Department.