Mr. Sylvester (Fess) Stanford, Jr. was born on Nov. 12, 1953, in Madison to the late Mr. & Mrs. Sylvester (Essie) Stanford, Sr.

“Fess” was employed many years at Lithonia Lighting and later employed at Beaver Manufactory until his health declined. In his earlier years, he enjoyed playing softball with the “Untouchables”. Some of fess favorite activities were grilling, partying and going to drag races. He attended many of the surrounding churches.

He departed his life on Saturday, June 8, 2019 at Piedmont Newton Hospital, in Covington. He was preceded in death by his son, Mr. Dwight “Ike” Smith; parents Mr. & Mrs. Sylvester (Essie) Stanford, Sr.; one great-granddaughter, Ja’Laila Cole and brother, Mr. Eugene Webb.

“Fess” leaves to cherish his memories, one son, Mr. Tyeas Stanford; five grandchildren;  two sisters, Mr. and Mrs. Carl (Mary) Bailey and Ms. Betty McCall; three brothers, Mr. and Mrs. Tommy (Yvonne) Adams, Mr. and Mrs. Phillip (Ophelia) Adams, and Minister Charlie Stanford; one honorary daughter, Ms. Shan Gaither; three special cousins, Ms. Betty Smith, Ms. Peggy Smith, and Ms. Zear Stanford and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

The funeral service was held at noon Friday, June 14 at Springfield Missionary Baptist Church, 4606 Springfield Drive, Newborn, GA 30056, with the Rev. Jerry Stokes, Pastor and the Rev. William H. Gaither officiating.  

The family of Mr. Sylvester “Fess” Stanford, Jr. would like to thank everyone for all the acts of kindness, phone calls, prayers showed to us during this beloved time. Please continue to keep us in prayer.