Edward Jesbert Sanford Jr.

Edward Jesbert Sanford Jr., lovingly known as EJ, passed away on August 9, 2025, at the age of 18. He was born on October 27, 2006, in Killeen, Texas, to Gaylord Rington and Edward Sanford. EJ grew up with his sister, Jeslyn Sanford, and the two shared a close and cherished bond throughout his life.

From a young age, EJ showed a vibrant personality and a natural athletic ability. He played for the Bandits Football Team in El Paso and earned a spot on the All-Star Team during elementary school, a rare honor among his peers. He also played baseball for the Braves and the Whitesox in Bear Creek Little League. During high school, EJ attended Paetow High School where he graduated and was an active member of the student council and the Asian American Student Union. His passion for music was evident when he sang with the choir at a Houston Rockets game in middle school.

EJ was fortunate to travel extensively at a young age, visiting the Middle East including Kuwait, Dubai, Bahrain, Oman, and Egypt. He also created unforgettable memories on family trips to Disney World, SeaWorld, Wisconsin, and New York.

Throughout his life, EJ was drawn to helping others. He worked as a lifeguard at the community pool and at Typhoon Texas, where he was known for his attentiveness and warm spirit. His dedication and excellence in school were recognized through multiple honor roll placements in his early years.

EJ is survived by his loving parents, Gaylord Rington and Edward Sanford, and his beloved sister, Jeslyn Sanford. He also leaves behind many family members who were deeply connected to him and instrumental in his upbringing. These include his uncle and aunt (and legal guardians) Rommel and Jenny Carino, along with his baby cousin Mia, as well as his uncle and aunt Ludgier and Madison Rington and their children Logan and Kai. EJ’s extended family includes Siony Quiambao, Amelita and Boyet Quiambao, Mone Jane and Bong Quiambao, Princess and Bethuel Gabriel, Marilyn and Piorette Mallare, Patrick Mallare, PJ Mallare, Sophia Mallare, Maggie and Christller Quiambao, Theresa and Francis Quiambao, Jennilyn and Ricky Hilado, Jocelyn and Michael Jay Quiambao, Rikki Quiambao, Crystal Gabriel and Matthew Argao, Mickey Gabriel, Jonas Robinett, Leslie and Jason Robinett, Avery Quiambao, Riley Quiambao, Landon Quiambao, Lyanna Quiambao, Caellum Hilado, Tidus Quiambao, Tori Sanford, Rae Martin, Curtis "CJ" Calhoun Jr., Giang Do and Mai Nguyen, Nam Do, Wendy Do, Son Do and Thi Pham, Jason Do, Vanessa and Chris Jones, Gabrielle and Madison Jones.

He was preceded in death by his grandmother Divina Rington (Lola), grandfather Obet Quiambao (Bapa), uncle Jesbert Carino (Uncle JR), and grandmother Linda Walker. EJ remained close to all of his family, and his warm and fun-loving presence was a light to all who knew him.

Outside of school and work, EJ enjoyed a wide variety of hobbies and interests. He had a strong love for basketball and was especially inspired by LeBron James. He also loved going to the gym, playing football and baseball, singing in choir, and watching anime. EJ had a deep appreciation for music and found joy in spending quality time with his sister, friends, and cousins. He could often be found bowling, joking around, or playing with Mia. He had a particular love for McDonald’s, often making it part of his routine. Above all, EJ had a unique gift for bringing smiles and laughter to those around him.

EJ's legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him. His life, though brief, was full of joy, laughter, and love.