William Earl Sanford

William Earl Sanford, 95, of Lexington, died peacefully in his home on Friday. He was born September 13, 1926, in Newberry County, a son of James Clifton Sanford and Nannie Morris Sanford. He graduated from Stoney Hill High School in Prosperity.

As a young man, he served in the Army Air Corps at the end of World War II. During his service, Mr. Sanford spent a year in Germany and was always honored to serve his country. His military service provided a strong foundation that guided him throughout his life.

Mr. Sanford became an educator after his military service. He graduated from Newberry College and became a teacher and principal at Woodruff High School. He later earned a master’s degree from the University of South Carolina and served as district superintendent for Hartsville area schools and then in the same role for Belton-Honea Path schools. He retired in 1985 and settled in Lexington to be close to his daughter and grandsons.

He married Rachel Kennedy in 1950, and they had a daughter Earline. Rachel died in 1996 and he later married JoAnn Rumph.

He was a member of Lexington United Methodist Church.

Mr. Sanford is survived by his wife JoAnn, daughter Earline Davis (Barry) of Lexington, grandsons Craig C. Davis (Victoria) of Lexington and Alan S. Davis (Leize Marie) of Atlanta, a great-granddaughter Charlotte and great-grandsons Finley and Caleb. He is also survived by a brother, Grady Sanford (Martez) of Greer, and his nieces and nephews, and JoAnn’s daughters Suzanne Carroll (Les) and Olivia Arnoult (Chris), grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents, wife Rachel, his brother Ray Sanford and his sister Helen Sanford Luther.

Caughman Harman Funeral is assisting the family. The funeral service will be Monday at 11:00 a.m. at Lexington United Methodist Church. The family will greet visitors at 10:00 a.m. on Monday in the church’s parlor. Internment with military honors will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Newberry Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Lexington United Methodist Church Building Fund.

The family would like to thank Lutheran Hospice and all the special caregivers who were by Mr. Sanford’s side during these last two years.