Cecil Edwin Bodiford was born on March 10th, 1936, in Donalsonville, GA., to Sidney and Ester Hicks Bodiford. He passed away January 21st, 2024, in the comfort of his own home in Sorrento, FL., attended by hospice. Cecil was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dyanne Bodiford, whom he married on March 3rd, 1962. Together, they raised two children, Sheila Bodiford Burger and Derrick Bodiford. Cecil is survived by his two kids, Sheila Bodiford Burger and Derrick Bodiford, 8 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren.

At a young age, Cecil started his career as a hard-working carpenter in Tallahassee, FL. While in Arizona, he worked on the Glen Canyon Dam and during his time there, is when he met his beloved wife, Dyanne. In 1964, Cecil took an interest in buying and renting properties. Cecil also owned a glass business in California, called Bonanza Glass. After his time in the western part of the United States, Cecil decided to move back to Florida. At this time he began purchasing land and houses in Sorrento, FL., and he also built the East Lake Plaza where he rented out the building, at which time it became a drug store and restaurant. Cecil retired as a Real Estate Broker and was also one of the founding members of the East Lake County Chamber of Commerce and many knew him as the "Mayor of Sorrento". He also built many houses in and around the Sorrento area including his own, which he was very proud of.