James Howard Stanford, Jr.

Mr. James Howard Stanford, Jr, 70, of Leslie, peacefully passed away on Saturday, June 8, 2024.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at DeSoto Church at 137 N Luke St. Desoto, GA 31743. Rev. Brenda Lawson will officiate, and the family will visit with friends following the service.

Born on October 1, 1953, in Americus, Howard worked as an electrician, talented carpenter, farmed for a while, and served as a cable TV technician. He was an avid saltwater fisherman and often enjoyed fishing with his son Andy and his friends, Steve James and Bill Gregory. Howard loved singing and sang with a quartet called Behind The Cross from DeSoto Church where he was a member. He will be remembered as a loving, sweet husband, daddy, granddaddy and friend.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Stanford, and his sister, Sissy Deriso.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife of 46 years, Lynn F. Stanford of Leslie; his father, Howard Stanford, Sr. of Americus; children, Julie Mercer and Brandon of Hull, GA, and Andy Stanford and Tina of Leslie; his grandboys, Aiden Wooden, Mason Mercer, Conor Stanford, and Nathan Mercer; sister-in-law, Lissa Faircloth; brother-in-law, Ed Faircloth and Ruth; several nieces, and nephews, Brian, Tara, Betsy, and Carey.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Desoto Church at PO BOX 160 DeSoto, GA 31743.

Condolences and memories may be shared on the website of Joseph W. Jones Funeral Home at www.josephwjones.com.

Joseph W. Jones Funeral Home of Leesburg has been given the honor to serve the Stanford family.