1939 – 2024
Dennis Eldon Stanford, of Edmond, Oklahoma, passed away on Thursday, May 16th at the age of 84. He was preceded in death by his brother, Weston Stanford, and sister, Kenda Fawell.
Dennis was born on June 13th, 1939 in Amarillo, Texas to parents Herbert W. Stanford and Virgie Lee Stanford (Gibson). He lived much of his childhood in Tucumcari, New Mexico. He returned to Texas as a teenager and graduated from Amarillo High School. He went on to attend Amarillo Jr. College, and later received his Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics from West Texas A&M University.
Dennis married his church-camp sweetheart, Paula June Cayton, on August 30th, 1962, and fathered children, Jeffrey Rob Stanford and Rebecca Elizabeth Stanford-Ferrell. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, two children, son-in-law, Sean Ferrell, and grandchildren, Lauren, Addison, and Ben Stanford, as well as, Maya and Bennett Ferrell. They lovingly refer to him as “Dodad”, and describe him as one of the warmest people they’ve ever known.
After graduating from college, Dennis worked as a Computer Specialist for the Pantex Plant in Amarillo before relocating with his family to Oklahoma City and assuming his long-term position as a Systems Analyst and Supervisor for the State of Oklahoma Department of Human Services. After many years in the role, he retired and began assisting his wife in her private practice counseling and testing business.
A tremendous example to all who knew him, Dennis was a National Guardsman and an avid man of God. His relationship with Christ greatly influenced how he lived his life, having acted as Deacon and Youth Leader at West Amarillo Christian Church. He always loved worship and the fellowship of church membership, most recently worshiping at Mayflower Congregational Church. He also enjoyed playing chess, board games, and all types of card games with family and friends.
He had the best laugh and an amazing sense of humor that we’ll never forget. He truly made the world a better place and he will be missed.
Memorial services will take place on Saturday, November 9, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. in the St. Edwards Chapel at The Casady School in Oklahoma City, OK.
Dennis, a truly loving person who spread his love and compassion to everyone. It has been an honor to have shared time with him. Aleta
Dennis made the world a better place. The way he loved and cherished Paula was a joy to see. I was blessed to have known him. My deepest condolences to the Sanford family. Dennis will be missed by all who knew him. With warmest regards and much love, Barbara
Dennis and Paula were clients of ours and he always made me smile when he and Paula would call or come into our office. He was truly a sweet man and he will be missed. Kathi
Dennis was a joy to work with at Okla DHS. He made a positive difference!
I will always remember Dennis as a kind and gentle man who loved his family and friends. He gave us all a reason to laugh and smile. We miss him already, but we thank God that we will see him again someday over the rainbow.
Dennis was such a special person!! He seemed kind of quiet but when you got to know him you could really appreciate his dry wit and his sense of humor!! He was so patient with Paula— she had trouble finding things….😁. He showed his true intelligence when he played Chess or Bridge. We spent so many delightful evenings together!!❤️❤️❤️
Dennis was a pleasure to work with….always a smile, always the best of attitudes and a smile as infectious as the flu. Just so bright and a pleasure to be around. I know he will be missed terribly.