Spartanburg, SC — With heavy hearts, the South Carolina Association of Educational Office Professionals (SCAEOP) and the wider education community mourn the loss of one of their most beloved leaders. Pauline Aubrey Alford, CEOE, a former SCAEOP President and dedicated servant to Spartanburg County District Five schools, passed away on Thursday, June 19, 2025.
Born in Holyoke, Massachusetts, Pauline was the daughter of the late Hector D. Aubrey and Annette Roulier Aubrey. She was also the devoted wife of James “Al” Olin Alford, with whom she shared a life of love, partnership, and service.
Throughout her distinguished career, Pauline poured her heart and soul into public education, working at multiple schools including Berry Shoals Intermediate, Wellford Academy, Abner Creek Academy, D.R. Hill Middle School, and Florence Chapel Middle School—where she proudly helped open the school and establish its foundation.
But Pauline’s legacy reached far beyond the walls of any single building. A proud and active member of SCAEOP and the National Association of Educational Office Professionals (NAEOP), she served with grace and vision as SCAEOP’s Past President. Her leadership style was marked by professionalism, kindness, and a quiet but unwavering strength that inspired those around her.
“Pauline’s impact on our organization and on the educational community in South Carolina is immeasurable,” said a current SCAEOP board member. “She led not for recognition, but because she cared deeply—about people, about students, and about the future of education support professionals.”
Colleagues remember Pauline as a mentor, a friend, and a gentle guiding light. She carried herself with humility and warmth, always ready with a kind word, a listening ear, or a helping hand. Whether she was supporting new staff, organizing events, or championing professional development, Pauline always made others feel valued and seen.
Her passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of her loved ones, friends, and the educational community she so tirelessly served. Yet in this time of sorrow, we also celebrate a life lived with purpose, grace, and extraordinary commitment to others.
To Al, her beloved husband, and to the entire Alford and Aubrey families, we extend our deepest condolences and unwavering support. May you find peace in the beautiful legacy Pauline leaves behind—a legacy rooted in service, compassion, and love.
Pauline Aubrey Alford, your light will never dim in the lives of those you touched.
You will be missed. You will be remembered.
And you will always be honored.
Rest in peace, dear Pauline.
