Roy E. Sanford

Ladies and gentlemen, family, and friends, My name is Patricia, and I have had the profound honor of knowing and loving Roy, my husband, for sixty remarkable years. Today, we gather to celebrate the life of a truly extraordinary man, a man whose compassion, friendliness, and boundless love touched each of us in ways that words can scarcely convey. I am grateful for this opportunity to share with you the essence of Roy’s spirit and the indelible mark he left on our hearts. Roy was 83 years old when he left this world, but the legacy he leaves behind is timeless. Born with a heart full of love and a spirit eager to serve, Roy dedicated his life to his family, his faith, and his community. He served honorably as an Air Force veteran, a role that filled him with pride and inspired him to honor fellow veterans at every opportunity. For over thirty years, Roy worked diligently for the City of Lakeland, and for nearly forty years, he imparted wisdom and faith as a Sunday School teacher. His commitment to Parkway Baptist Ministry spanned more than half a century, a testament to his unwavering devotion to his faith and community. Roy had a unique gift for turning strangers into friends within moments of meeting them. His friendly nature and compassionate spirit drew people to him, and he never missed an opportunity to share his faith, often leaving behind a gospel track as a token of hope and inspiration. I remember fondly how he would brighten the lives of those who needed a friend, offering a shoulder to cry on, or simply listening with an open heart. Roy’s sense of humor was legendary among those who knew him. He loved to pull pranks and always had a joke ready to share, bringing laughter and joy wherever he went. And, oh, how he loved his food! After finishing a meal, he would eagerly inquire about the next one, especially curious about dessert. Family was the cornerstone of Roy’s life. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, endlessly proud of his family’s accomplishments. Our annual family vacations were a highlight for him, a time to create cherished memories and celebrate the bonds that kept us close. Roy’s kind smile and loving eyes were a beacon of warmth and sincerity. As Granny used to say, "Roy would talk the horns off a Billy goat," and indeed, he could engage anyone in conversation, leaving them feeling valued and understood. His presence was a source of comfort and strength, and it is this presence we will miss most dearly. As we reflect on Roy’s life, let us carry forward his legacy of love, service, and faith. Let us remember his kindness and his unwavering dedication to those he loved. Though we mourn the loss of a remarkable man, we also celebrate the incredible life he lived and the countless lives he touched. In closing, I share with you a simple yet profound reminder, one that Roy embodied every day: Love one another, serve with an open heart, and treasure each moment with those you hold dear. May Roy’s memory be a blessing to us all, and may we find comfort in knowing that his spirit lives on in the love we share and the lives he enriched. Thank you.

Roy E. Sanford

May 13, 1941 - January 7, 2025