Jeffery Alan Sanford, 57, of Bradford departed this life on July 31, 2024. He was born June 6, 1967, in Newport to R.A. and Gwena (Mitchell) Sanford.
Jeffery had a deep passion for playing the guitar and singing, filling many hearts with his music. He found joy in buying and selling, was a real horse trader and had an enthusiasm for tractor pulling. An animal lover at heart, he adored his cat Reba, who was always by his side.
Jeffery was a beloved son, father, brother, uncle, friend, nephew, companion, and teacher. His dedication to education and love for teaching left a lasting impact on his students and colleagues. Known for his kindness and generosity, Jeffery’s spirit touched the lives of many.
His love for music, animals, and family defined his life, creating cherished memories for all who knew him. Jeffery’s legacy as an educator and compassionate soul will continue to inspire and comfort those he leaves behind. His memory will be treasured, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Johnny and Nellie Sanford and Herbert and Tessie Mitchell; his wife, Martha Sanford; his nephew, Jamie Goree; his great-niece, Kaydence Humes.
He is survived by his parents; his significant other, Bliss Akridge of Bradford and her daughters, Alyssa Akridge of Bradford and Hannah Green (Jason) of Bradford; his brother, Timothy Sanford (Stephanie) of Bald Knob; his nieces, Amanda Anderson (Shannon) of Bradford and Tonya Humes (Anthony) of Bald Knob; his great-nieces, Kaylee Schumann and Emersyn Humes; his great-nephew, A.J. Humes; his brother-in-law, Lloyd Goree and his lifelong friend, Tommy Duncan of Bald Knob; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, students and friends.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Shannon Roach, Michael McSpadden, David Baker, Lyndon Bundy, Thomas Garner, and Lee Crisp. Honorary pallbearers are Tim Lockett, Steve Mayhue, Pacer Blevins, Shane Blevins, Anthony Humes, Shannon Anderson, Shane Otts, Tommy Duncan, and Dewayne Ivie.
Service will be at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, August 5, 2024, at Riverview Fine Art Center at 810 Raider Drive in Searcy, Arkansas with Brother Chris Monkus officiating. The interment will be at Evergreen Cemetery in Judsonia. Visitation will be from 10:30 until service time.
