Buford Pete Wolford

Buford “Pete” Wolford, 74, of Majestic, Kentucky, passed away at 12:20 p.m. on Sunday, February 15, 2026, at his home following a brief illness. He was born on June 20, 1951, at Stopover, Kentucky, the son of the late J.C. and Olga (Sansom) Wolford. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by ten siblings.

A graduate of Phelps High School, Pete was valedictorian of the Class of 1971. He went on to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in musical education from Warren Wilson College and Morehead State University. Mr. Wolford taught music to students in the Phelps community for 27 years at the local elementary and high schools before retiring. Two of those years were spent as the first principal of Phelps Elementary School (1986-1988). Throughout his life, he made significant efforts to preserve local and family history and served as a mentor and trusted source of knowledge for those who shared that interest.  A man of deep faith, he was a lifelong member of Shepard Memorial Presbyterian Church, where he served for several years as pianist and choir director. He also worked with youth in the local Presbyterian churches, taught piano lessons to many students, and was a voracious reader.

Pete enjoyed mountain biking, especially along the Virginia Creeper Trail, and singing with the Tug Valley Choral Society.

He is survived by several nieces and nephews, as well as countless friends.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the Jones & West Funeral Home in Phelps located at 37035 Highway 194 East.

Funeral services will follow on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home, with Pastor Debbie Coleman and Pastor Kelley Baldridge officiating.

Following cremation, his ashes will be inurned at the Hurley-Wolford Family Cemetery located at Stopover, Kentucky.

The Jones & West Funeral Home of Phelps, Kentucky is honored to serve the Wolford Family.  Our guestbook may be viewed at www.joneswestfh.com.

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