Russell Joseph Sanford

Russell J Sanford, 89, formerly of Tampa, FL, went to be with his bride of 70 years for their anniversary and with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on March 8, 2026 surrounded by family in Hernando Beach, FL. Born in 1936 to Russell and Helen Sanford. Survived by five daughters Cindy, Dede, Faye, Kaye and Joh Anne; eight grandchildren Chris, Celeste, Amanda, Joshua, Theron, Ryan, Joey and Alexandra; five great-grandchildren Courtney, Richard, Cobyn, Oliver and Juniper. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather to us all.

He was predeceased by his wife Evelyn and his parents. An avid fisherman his entire life and a plumber/pipefitter by trade with Union Local 123. Graduate of Hillsborough High School Class of 1954. Long time member of Temple Heights Baptist Church for 52 years.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at Temple Heights Baptist Church on Saturday, March 28th at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his honor to:

Temple Heights Baptist Church

5020 Puritan Road

Tampa, FL 33617

A Committal Service will be held at Garden of Memories Cemetery, E Lake Ave, Tampa, FL 33610, US, on March 29, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm.