11/12/1937 – 12/01/2025
With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Norman Bayne Cranford, who departed this life peacefully on December 1, 2025, at the age of 88. Bayne, as he was affectionately known, passed away at Bethany House in Auburn, Alabama, following a brief decline in health.
Born on November 12, 1937, in Greensboro (Hale County), Alabama, Bayne lived a life filled with curiosity and kindness. A gentle soul with a vibrant, loquacious spirit, he brought warmth, humor and wisdom to every room he entered. He touched the lives of all who knew him with his storytelling, compassion, and unwavering love for lifelong learning.
Bayne was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents, Katie McMillan Bayne and George Madison Bayne; his loving parents, Cathryn McMillan Bayne Cranford and Col. Norman Jones Cranford; and his devoted spouse, Mary Joan Atkins Briggs Parrott Cranford.
Bayne is survived by the family he affectionately and proudly called his “adopted” family: his stepson Brian Jon Briggs; daughter-in-law Kathe Kelley Briggs; granddaughters Amy Kelley Briggs and Lisa Marie Briggs Potter along with her husband Daniel Glen Potter Sr; and his beloved great-grandson, James Edward Potter. One of Bayne’s greatest joys was receiving monthly photos of James from Idaho, which he cherished dearly and collected in his “man cave.”
As the son of a military father, Bayne often reminisced about the 18 major moves his family made throughout his lifetime – memories that shaped his adaptability, resilience, and wide-ranging curiosity. A dedicated scholar, he completed several degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts from Auburn University in 1979. He retired as a Laboratory Assistant from Benchmark Engineering in Auburn, AL. His thirst for knowledge was endless. An avid reader of newspapers and National Geographic magazines, Bayne immersed himself in subjects such as geology, dinosaurs, Catholicism, Scotland, and medical science.
Bayne’s passion for geology manifested into an impressive collection of rocks, geodes, fossils and rare stones – treasures he shared proudly with friends and family. He also enjoyed the simple comfort of watching HGTV with his caregivers and held a special fondness for his longtime caretakers Paris Mixon and Linda Alexander, whose companionship and care brought him much joy.
Bayne leaves behind a rich legacy of love, wisdom, laughter, and stories that will continue to echo in the hearts of all who knew him. His memory will be cherished forever.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Bayne’s honor to Compassus Hospice Care, Bethany House, or St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Auburn.
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