Roger Hugh Bedford Jr., a stalwart figure in Alabama politics and former State Senator, passed away on October 10, 2023. He was 67.
Born on July 2, 1956, Bedford dedicated much of his life to public service, leaving an indelible mark on the state’s political landscape. He served as a Democratic member of the Alabama Senate, faithfully representing the 6th District for two notable stints. His first term ran from 1982 to 1990, followed by a prolonged period from 1994 to 2014.
One of Bedford’s most influential roles was as Minority Leader from 2011 to 2013, a position where he championed the rights and interests of the Democratic Party while forging ties across the aisle. In 1996, his commitment to Alabama and its people led him to run as a candidate for the United States Senate.
Outside the political arena, Bedford’s life was not without its challenges. He suffered a deep personal loss when his wife, the former Maudie Darby of Florence, passed away due to breast cancer in March 2022.
Bedford’s legacy in politics and his impact on the state of Alabama will be remembered for generations to come. Friends, colleagues, and supporters recall him as a man of integrity, vision, and unwavering dedication to the welfare of his constituents.
He is survived by his son, Roger Bedford III.
