We are saddened to share that our brother and colleague, Stephen Gifford, passed away on January 4, 2026.
About Stephen
- Joined American Airlines in 1985 as an Aviation Maintenance Technician.
- In the early 1990s, he earned his Inspector credentials and served with distinction.
- In 2011 he moved to the Terminal as an Aviation Maintenance Technician, where he continued to support our crews and operations with skill, dedication, and a steady hand.
Stephen’s commitment to safety, teamwork, and his steadfast professionalism made him a valued member of our union family and a friend to many of us.
Thank you, Stephen, for your years of service, your gentle humor, and the legacy you leave behind. We will miss you dearly.
Please keep the Gifford family in your thoughts and prayers.
From Judy (his wife)
What can I say about the very finest man I ever met? We met while serving in the Marine Corps and married six months later. We celebrated 45 years of marriage last August. We grew up together, we learned a lot of things the hard way, but the many prayers of others kept us through it all. Little is much when God is in it.
We raised two kids and enjoyed six grandchildren, one who just met him in heaven. He was a tender, hard-working, humble, faith filled, loving man with a strong protector, patriotic heart.
He worked for 40 years for American Airlines and knew the work he did was important. He served 34 years as a TPD reserve police officer most of that spent with the motorcycle unit.
The motto of the Marine Corps is Semper Fidelis, Latin for Always Faithful-And he was in every way. As a husband, father, papa, and follower of Jesus. I never met a finer man.. I will miss him every day until I see him again. Thank you for the part you played in his life. He was richer for having known all of you.
Services:
There will be a simple funeral service at community Baptist Church in Coweta just off Highway 51 on Thursday at 1 PM. Please share the news with any one you may feel would want to attend.