Mark “CHENG” Andrew Befort, 75, of Boaz, Alabama, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026. He was born on January 9, 1951, in Albertville, Alabama, to J.J. “Red” Befort and Myra Jo Jordan Befort.
Mark was a merchant mariner and proudly spent much of his career at sea, serving as a Chief Engineer as part of American Maritime Officers, and affectionately known as “CHENG,” aboard U.S. Naval (USNS) ships. Though he was not military, his years at sea took him around the world and brought him into contact with countless people and many faces he never forgot. After retiring from his career at sea, Mark continued sharing his knowledge and experience as an instructor at STAR Center in Dania Beach, Florida, where he taught and mentored the next generation of marine engineers.
While his career took him around the world, Mark’s greatest joy in later years was being Pappy. He loved his grandchildren dearly and treasured his time with Kaleigh, Kason, Jackson, and Ryder. He also had a deep love for his animals, especially his faithful dog, Duke.
Mark was a no-nonsense kind of man. He said what he meant and meant what he said, but beneath that straightforward exterior was a man who believed in giving everybody a chance. He made an impression on the many people whose paths crossed his throughout his life.
He enjoyed motorcycles, Alabama football, and, perhaps most importantly, a good meal from Waffle House. His usual order was a double order of hashbrowns: “scattered well, all the way, hold the gravy.”
Mark is survived by his children, Matthew Befort, Bryan Tate, and Taylor Prickett (Jonathon “Scooter” Prickett); his grandchildren, Kaleigh Tate, Kason Tate, Jackson Prickett, and Ryder Prickett; his brother, Jordan (Helen) Befort; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and the many people around the world whose lives he touched.
He was preceded in death by his parents, J.J. “Red” Befort and Myra Jo Jordan Befort; his brother, Gary (Dean) Befort; and his sister, Gail (Mike) Leggett.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Mark’s honor to 2nd Chance Shelter 130 County Road 398 Boaz, Alabama, an organization supporting animals in need.
Mark lived life on his own terms, traveled farther than most, taught what he knew, loved his family, and left behind more stories than could ever fit in an obituary.
He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.
Mark Befort was instrumental in the success of STAR Center’s TECH Program, mentoring the very first classes of the engineering apprenticeship program.
Mark Befort seen here surrounded by his children and grandchildren.