James Harold Stafford, Jr.

It is with deep sorrow and gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of James

Harold Stafford, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who went to be

with the Lord on December 6, 2024. James was a devoted Christian man whose faith guided

every aspect of his life. He was a true servant of Christ, living with joy, kindness, and a tireless

commitment to those around him. He was a joyful soul whose laughter and warmth brightened

the lives of all who knew him.

Born on May 12, 1939, in Jackson County, TN to the late James Harold Stafford Sr and Anna

Lee Heady Stafford, James spent his life working hard to provide for his family, always putting

others before himself. His work ethic, dedication, and compassion made him a respected member

of his community. He was the kind of neighbor everyone could rely on, always ready with a

helping hand. His legacy will be remembered for years to come on the Stafford family’s beloved

Friendly Road.

James served in the National Guard and followed his service with a career in the food industry

working for many different companies selling and distributing food products and also owned two

grocery stores prior to retirement.

Married on June 16, 1958, James was a loving and faithful partner to Judith Gail Sisco Stafford

for 66 years. Their marriage was a testament to love, patience, and unwavering devotion.

James was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, finding great joy in spending time with his

grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His love for his family was boundless, and he enjoyed

watching each generation grow in faith and character.

James was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ serving as an elder for many years with the

Baxter Church of Christ and most recently with the Buffalo Valley Church of Christ, where he

was a current member.

In addition to his parents, James was proceeded in death by sister, Barbara Stafford Flatt and

brothers Mark and Richard Stafford and brothers-in-law, Joe Flatt and Kenny Ramsey.

Along with his wife Judy, James is survived by his sister, Jan Ramsey, sons and daughters-in-

law, Steve and Teresa Stafford, Tom and Kim Stafford, his cherished grandchildren Stephen

(Erica) Stafford, Evan (Ashley) Stafford, Annalee Stafford and Jared Stafford, his pride and joy,

his great-grandchildren, Amelia, Mae, James & Lydia Stafford, sisters-in-law Rachel Stafford

and Wanda Stafford and a host of loved nieces and nephews.

Visitation with the family will be on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 10am to 12pm with a

memorial service beginning at 12pm at the Buffalo Valley Church of Christ. In lieu of flowers,

the family requests donations be made in honor of James’s love for children and babies to either

The Magnolia Foundation or The Cookeville Regional Medical Center Charitable Foundation

attn: The Angel Garden fund.

Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. 931-268-1550