It is with shattered hearts that we announce the unexpected and sudden passing of Ray Stanford (67). A beloved, amazing man and devoted husband and father, he was taken from us far too soon and will be missed by so many.

Ray was born Julius Raymond Stanford on November 21st, 1956 in St. Petersburg Florida, where he was raised. He was preceded in death by his parents Raymond Clyde Stanford and Bobbi Dean Cooper Stanford, as well as his brother Roger Lynn Stanford.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Rachel, and his only son, Tony; they were his entire life and he worked hard to provide for them, offering guidance, support, positivity, and laughter. He is also survived by his brother James Douglas Stanford, who shares in his brother’s enthusiasm for life.

He and his wife Rachel share an amazingly deep and special love, and were bonded to one another in ways most couples do not understand. Theirs is truly a love story for the ages and, to anyone who know the story of the first night they met, was truly a divine intervention, absolute fate, and literal love at first sight. Ray was content to spend the rest of his days exploring the world with Rachel by his side, or simply sitting next to her and holding her hand.

He and his son Tony were truly best friends and enjoyed 35 years of companionship and adventure together. Sharing in the same sense of humor, they enjoyed spending time collaborating on woodworking and building projects, sipping cocktails and smoking cigars, and helping one another enjoy the wonderful beauty of everyday simplicity.

Ray was well-known for his bright smile, kindness, compassion, and selflessness and (for the most part) was very easy-going. Moreso than anything else, he will be remembered for his endless wit and humor that came readily and easily to him. He truly believed in laughing in the face of adversity, which helped he and his loved ones through difficult times.

We are honoring Ray’s wishes for serenity and “no big fanfare” in his passing and will not be hosting a traditional service or memorial. At some point in the future, we may have a celebration of life in his honor; we all know Ray was always ready for a party.

In the meantime, Ray would want everyone to honor him by spreading positivity, kindness, and laughter. Please use this webpage to keep his spirit alive by posting photos, anecdotes, quotes, and memories of him here.

In lieu of flowers, and if you are so compelled to do so, please consider donating to Ray’s memorial fund to assist with end-of-life expenses.

"Legacy of Laughter"

Life handed him a few hard knocks,

Sometimes his luck was bad.

He had the usual ups and downs

As most of us have had.

Grief had its day along his way,

Great fortune passed him by,

But he always came out a winner

With a twinkle in his eye.

This legacy of laughter,

A gift from some forbear,

Was all the weapon that he had

To fight life's pain and care.

But he kept his sense of humor,

And he laughed away the tears,

And he went on spreading chuckles

All around him down the years.

And I know I'll find him waiting,

When I join him by and by,

Likely joshing with the angels

With that twinkle in his eye.

-Author Unknown

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