Retired Technical Sergeant Christopher Prince Lunsford I

It is with profound sadness that our family announces the passing of Ret. TSGT Christopher Prince Lunsford I, who departed this life on Monday, February 3, 2025, at the age of 63. Born on October 6, 1961, in Wetumka, Oklahoma to Matthew Lunsford of Detroit, Michigan, and Emmer Lee Viola Taylor of Wetumka, Oklahoma, Prince was the eldest of three and raised among a host of cousins and family.

From an early age, Prince had a deep love for adventure and a strong sense of justice, qualities that would later define his career in the military and law enforcement. Growing up in Wetumka, he spent his childhood playing outside until the streetlights came on, dreaming of becoming a hero like the cowboys in the old black-and-white Westerns he loved to watch. His admiration for legendary figures like John Wayne and Clint Eastwood shaped his strong moral compass and sense of duty. When he wasn't immersed in classic Westerns, he could be found cheering on his beloved Dallas Cowboys, never missing a chance to root for his team, whether they were soaring to victory or fighting through tough seasons. His passion for football and old Westerns stayed with him throughout his life, serving as a source of comfort, nostalgia, and joy that he eagerly shared with family and friends.

Prince enlisted as 'Christopher' in the United States Air Force in January of 1981, embarking on a distinguished military career that spanned 20 years of service. Throughout his service, he exemplified the Air Force's core values of: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do. He proudly served as Military Police, ensuring the security and well-being of his fellow servicemembers, before moving to Safety and specializing in Hazardous Materials. His dedication to training and mentorship culminated in his role as an instructor for incoming Air Force personnel, where he guided the next generation of airmen with his extensive knowledge and steadfast leadership.

Christopher's dedication to duty extended beyond his military and law enforcement careers - he was also a proud and devoted member of the Prince Hall Masons, a historic fraternity founded on the principles of brotherhood, integrity, and service. He began his Masonic journey in 1991 while stationed in Panama, joining Prince Hall Freemasonry, established in 1784 as the oldest African American Masonic order, which was created to provide a space for black men who were denied admittance into existing lodges. Throughout the years, Christopher remained deeply committed to uplifting those around him, embodying the values of charity, mentorship, and moral excellence that the Masonic brotherhood upholds. Whether he was assisting fellow servicemembers or serving his community, Christopher carried the spirit of Freemasonry with him in all that he did. His devotion to faith, family, and fraternity left a lasting impact on his brothers in the lodge and all who had the privilege of knowing him. After retiring from the Air Force, Christopher continued his commitment to public service by transitioning back into law enforcement. He worked as a jailer at Lew Sterrett in Dallas, Texas, where his experience in security and safety was invaluable. He later served with the Lincoln Parish Sheriff's Office in Ruston, Louisiana, and the county Sheriff's Office in Wetumka, Oklahoma, bringing his discipline, professionalism, and deep sense of duty to each role. His work in these positions touched countless lives, and he was known for his fairness, dedication, and willingness to help those in need.

Beyond his professional achievements, Prince was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, uncle, and grandfather, cherishing every moment spent with his loved ones. He is survived by his brother, Cary Loggins of Tulsa, Oklahoma; his twin daughter Eboni Cherel Lusford Ceasar of Ausin, TX, and his son, Christopher Prince Lunsford II of Ruston, LA; his granddaughter Aniah Cymone Lunsford of Rockwall, TX; and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father, Matthew Kines Lunsford of Detroit, MI; his mother, Emmer Lee Viola (Taylor) Loggins of Tulsa, OK; his sister Kendis Renay Anderson of Tulsa, OK; and his twin daughter, Satin Symone Lunsford of Rockwall, TX. He was married for  years to Renay Lunsford. He was also married to Christy Jackson for  years, and resided with his fiance Sheila Samilton until the time of his passing.

His family was his greatest source of pride, and his legacy lives on through them.

Visitation for Christopher Prince Lunsford will be held on Friday, February 14, 2025 from 1:00 PM until 5:00 PM at Williamson-Spradlin Funeral Home.

A funeral service for Christopher Prince Lunsford I will be held Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church of Wetumka. Interment will follow at North Fork Cemetery of Clearview.

His unwavering service - both in uniform and beyond - will be forever remembered. He will be deeply missed and never forgotten.

Services are under the direction of Williamson-Spradlin Funeral Home of Wetumka.