Mr. Antonio Terrell Thedford's Obituary
Mr. Antonio Terrell Thedford was born as a second child to Linda McClelland and Jacki~ Taylor on April 4, 1971 in Meridian, Mississippi. He fell in love with the game of football as a child before becoming one of Meridian High School's greatest defensive ends in school history. The defensive line he played with was labeled notoriously as "The 4 Horsemen". "Tony" contributed to the success of two championships at Meridian High School. He remained faithful and a die-hard WILDCAT until his death. "Tony" met his first love, Elaine Naylor, as a young teenager and was married for 16 years. To this union 3 children were born. Years later he remarried, as he was a man with a big heart, to Tomeka Hopson, and to their 7 year union 2 baby gi,rls were born. He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents. Antonio loved 2 things in life, his children and Meridian High School football. Antonio answered his Father's call to suit up in a Heavenly -Wildcat uniform on May 20, 2023 at his home. He leaves to cherish his memories: a loving mother, Linda Brown of Meridian, MS; (2) sons, Antonio (Xavier) Naylor and Dexter (Tybrisha) Thedford both of Meridian, MS; (3) daughters, Aliah Thedford of Lauderdale, MS, Charity and Victoria Thedford both of Gulfport, MS; (2) sisters, LaTonya Gibbs and Letita (Tommy) Watson of Meridian, MS; (1) brother, Sampson Hudson of Meridian, MS; (3) aunts, Irene (Lonnell) Jordan, Elma McClelland and Dorothy (John) Carver; (2) uncles, Charles McClelland and Johnny Ray McClelland; (4) grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends that loved him and will miss him dearly.
What’s your fondest memory of Antonio?
What’s a lesson you learned from Antonio?
Share a story where Antonio's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Antonio you’ll never forget.
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