Obituary for Larry Stafford

Ponca City Now - October 22, 2021 2:08 pm

Larry Lee Stafford

August 16, 1943 – October 22, 2021

Larry Lee Stafford, of Blackwell, Oklahoma passed away the morning of October 22, 2021, with his loving family by his side at the age of 78 years.

Larry Lee Stafford was born on August 16, 1943, in Blackwell, Oklahoma, the son of Joseph Henry Stafford and Anna Belle (Cope) Stafford.

He attended Blackwell Schools and worked as a pressman for the Blackwell Journal Tribune for several years before working as a Motor Grader Operator for Kay County for over 30 years, ultimately retiring in 2010. Following his retirement he worked as a substitute teacher at Blackwell Elementary School, and he enjoyed pushing his twin granddaughters around town in their stroller, visiting all of the downtown businesses.

Larry married Susan Franz on May 22, 1966, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Blackwell, Oklahoma.

He was a 32nd Degree Mason. He was an avid bowler and coached the youth league when his children were growing up. Larry loved westerns, country music, and playing his guitar. Above all else, he loved spending time with his family. His grandkids will remember when he would show up at school with his famous magic tricks and goofy jokes.

Larry is survived by his wife, Susan Stafford; daughters, Cassie Leatherman and Lea Anne Steelmon; grandchildren, Ryan Spiva, Mason Leatherman, Amelia Leatherman and Lainey Leatherman; as well as numerous extended family members and his constant canine companion, Annie.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Leon Stafford, and his wife Delnah, Lonnie Stafford; and a grandson, Weston Spiva.

Graveside committal services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, October 25, 2021, in the outdoor chapel at Blackwell Cemetery with Father Balaswamy Bathini officiating. Burial will follow in Blackwell Cemetery.

The family would like to thank Sindi Wolfe and Hospice of North Central Oklahoma for their excellent care of our loved one.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of North Central Oklahoma and Blackwell Animal Control, sent in c/o Roberts and Son Funeral Home, 120 W. Padon, Blackwell, Oklahoma 74631.