Ruth Elaine Stafford

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Ruth Elaine Stafford, lovingly known as "Gigi," at the age of 97. She passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her devoted children, Kay Marsh and David Maddox.

Elaine’s life began in a way that reflected the strength and resilience she would carry with her throughout her years. Born on April 11, 1927, in New Madrid, Missouri, she arrived into the world in a boxcar during a rising flood, the daughter of Georgia (Mason) and Elmer Cline. Her arrival to the world and ability to thrive under such adversity was characteristic of her tenacious spirit and sense of determination . Elaine went on to build an impressive career with the telephone company, where she rose through the ranks to become a respected manager, known for her intelligence, work ethic, and leadership. While her professional accomplishments were remarkable, it was her family that meant the most to Gigi. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she cherished every moment with her loved ones and was always eager to lead the family on new adventures.

Elaine’s love of gardening, flowers, and bunnies brought her immense happiness, and she cherished the beauty of life’s simple pleasures. Her faith and grace were cornerstones of her life, and she touched all who knew her with her wisdom, warmth, and boundless love. One of her favorite sayings, "Come over here and put your arms around me—don’t you know love makes the world go ’round?" will forever echo in the hearts of those she touched.

Elaine is survived by her children, Kay Marsh, David Maddox, Mike Stafford, and Cathy Stafford; grandchildren, Kristin Rezek, Kelly Marsh, Mindy Gardner, and Cathy Miller and her great-grandchildren, Kaylin, Allie, and Cassie Rezek, and Mason, Grace, and Lydia Gardner, James, Louis and Ozzie O'Donnell.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 45 years, Howard Stafford, who passed earlier this year, as well as her children, Johnny Noel and Jacque (Noel) Walls and son-in law Douglas Marsh.

A celebration of Elaine’s extraordinary life will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Sikeston, MO.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Kenny Rogers Cerebral Palsy Center or First United Methodist Church in Sikeston, MO.

Gigi will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of love, strength, and grace will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, as a beacon of warmth and inspiration for generations to come.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.nunneleefuneralchapel.com for the Stafford family.