Joe Max Stanford Jr.

Joe was born on May 20, 1948, in Amory, Mississippi, the cherished son of the late Joe Max Stanford Sr. and Jacqueline Stanford (née Vaughan). Growing up with a sharp mind and a driven nature, he graduated from College Park High School in 1966 before attending the University of Georgia, where he earned a degree in Economics in 1970.

That same year, Joe answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps. As a Captain and Naval Aviator in Vietnam, he took to the skies with the immense grit and character that would define the rest of his life. Following the resignation of his commission, he brought that same unwavering commitment to his civilian career, working as an IT Support Executive until his retirement in 2014. He simply believed in doing things the right way, without pretense or complaint.

Above all, Joe possessed a quiet strength. He never sought the spotlight, choosing instead to serve as a steady anchor. He had a mischievous sense of humor and always kept things light with an unforgettable way of teasing the ones he loved.

A man of diverse passions, Joe lived life in motion. He was an avid golfer who loved the challenge and camaraderie of the game, and in his later years, he took up cycling with that same trademark enthusiasm. In a beautiful testament to his lifelong love of aviation, he helped a fellow Marine build a custom airplane from the ground up.

Joe was immensely proud of the family he built and the close bonds he sustained throughout his life. He is survived by his devoted daughters and their families: Katherine “Kate” Stanford Miller and her husband Wayne, along with their children Kimberly, Allison, Bennett, Kaleigh, and Madilyn; and Emily Stanford Hartley and her husband Kevin, along with their children Tabitha, Piper, and Fiona.

He also leaves behind his loving sister, Jacqueline “Lynn” Job, and her husband David; his nephew, David “Trey” Job; extended family across the country who love him dearly; and a community of lifelong friends and fellow veterans. Those who knew him are better for it. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Joe was interred with military honors at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia.