Mr. Sanford was born in Meridian, Mississippi on August 07, 1927 to William Hamilton Sanford, Sr. and Mittie Dee Walton Sanford.
Sandy was a proud and feisty Navy Veteran of The Battle of Lingayen among others, and adoring husband of his “BB”. He took the responsibility for five children for the love of the “most remarkable woman he ever met”, with whom he is re-united once again. He retired in 1977 after serving thirty-two years in the U.S. Navy. The great joy in his life was making boys into athletes, whatever game it was, be it basketball or baseball. He often talked about playing in the 50’s on the USS Franklin Delano Roosevelt baseball team in Italy. During the 60’s while stationed in Newport, RI, he coached the Navy athletic team in basketball and baseball, playing many area college teams. From 1967 to 1969, he coached little league baseball in Hattiesburg, Mississippi where he was a Navy Recruiter. He loved the game of golf. One of the last games he played at age 88 was with his nephew, Robert Sanford from Meridian. Right up until his death, he spent his days watching baseball and golf on TV.
Daughters, Marsha Hartness (Guy), Denise Taylor (Ed), Victoria Taylor (Rick Goodwin), Angie Sanford and Marilyn LeBlanc; daughter-in-law, Evelyn Taylor; son-in-law, Dave Brandon and nephew, Robert Sanford survive him. He was a loving grandfather to numerous grandsons and granddaughters, as well as ten great granddaughters and one great grandson.
Besides his parents, his wife, Marlene “BB” Lee Sanford, son, Jack Gregory Taylor; daughter, Sherry Brandon and brother, Joseph Sanford preceded Mr. Sanford in death.
A private family service will be held.
BAYVIEW FISHER-POU CHAPEL 3351 Scenic Highway is entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be offered at www.bayviewfisher-pouchapel.com.
“I am not alone; all who went before me are here.”
