Roy A Sanford

He was born on December 9, 1947, at DCH Northington Campus in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, to Floyd Arlie “Tip” Sanford and Ruth Price Sanford. He proudly served in the United States Army and was awarded the Army Commendation Medal (ARCOM). Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, grandpa, pastor, and true friend to many.

Roy’s noteworthy ministry involvement included World Changers, Builders for Christ through First Baptist Church Tuscaloosa, West Alabama Disaster Relief, the Southern Baptist Convention, and many more. His hands and heart were always at work for the Lord.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Cecelia Shelby Sanford; two children, Dana Sanford Harris (Jamey) and Roy Allen Sanford, Jr. (Kristy); seven grandchildren, Ashley Marie Gilliam, Jacob Allen Gilliam (Kaelyn), Meagan Howell Simmons (Dustin), Hannah Grace Howell, Laci Belle Howell, Zackery Christian Sanford, and Zander Floyd Sanford; and four great-grandchildren, Mateo Alán Olivares-Gilliam, Chloe Layne Simmons, Alden Guy Robertson, and Raelynne Dawn Colburn.

He is also survived by his brother, James “Jimmy” Sanford; his sister, Brenda Lawson (George); and his stepmother, Louise Sanford Albertson; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Angela Sanford; his parents, Floyd Arlie “Tip” Sanford and Ruth Price Sanford; and his brother, Donald Wayne Sanford.

Roy’s interests were an extension of his calling—building churches, serving in disaster relief, fishing, hunting, and serving alongside family and friends. His generosity, humor, unwavering strength in the Lord, and constant encouragement of the faith will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at 12:00 PM at First Baptist Church, Tuscaloosa. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of service. Interment will follow with a graveside service at Memory Hill Gardens. Officiating: Keith Pugh. Participating: Billy Grey and Roy Allen Sanford, Jr.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Builders for Christ or West Alabama Disaster Relief through First Baptist Church Tuscaloosa.

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His faithful servants.” — Psalm 116:15