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William Stafford Obituary

William Bradford Stafford "Brad" CHARLOTTE - William Bradford "Brad" Stafford of Charlotte passed away on January 28, 2015, at the age of 67. Brad was born on January 27, 1948, in Charlotte, North Carolina, to the late Otis Bradford Stafford and Sarah Knox Stafford. He is survived by his wife, Leslie Swinney Bivens; two children, Elizabeth and Ian Stafford; three step-children, John Bivens III, Katherine Everhart, Taylor Bivens; one granddaughter, Caidyn Stafford; and his sister Sally Stafford Pawoll and her family. Brad worked for WBTV as a photojournalist for the past 41 years. His colleagues at WBTV were family to him, and they describe Brad as a gentle, kind, and caring person as well as a master photographer. Brad was a lifelong resident of Dilworth who served on the Charlotte Historic District Commission for six years. Neighbors remember his constant smile, his easygoing manner, and his passion for preserving the integrity of the Dilworth Historic District. A service to honor Brad's life will be held on February 5th at 11 a.m. at The Great Aunt Stella Center located at 926 Elizabeth Avenue in Charlotte. The family would like to thank everyone at WBTV for their love and kindness, as well as the staff of Levine & Dickson Hospice House for their excellent care. Memorial contributions may be made to Levine & Dickson Hospice House. Arrangements are in the care of Hankins & Whittington Funeral Service; please share condolences online at www.hankinswhittington.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charlotte Observer on Feb. 1, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for William Stafford

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Ann Marie Oliva

March 12, 2015

Brad was one of the kindest, most gentle men I have ever known.

Annie Pride Turner

February 22, 2015

Many thanks to Mr/ Stafford. He mentioned my father, William Badger Pride in one of his commentaries. He gave this mblack farmer much respect. He must have been a good man.

Sheila Saints

February 2, 2015

Brad was always kind, patient and nice when I was a reporter at WBTV in the early '90s. Over the years when I would see him "in the field" setting up a live shot or shooting video, he always greeted me as an old friend. He was a gentle spirit with a warm smile and big heart. I'm grateful for the experience of knowing him.

tommy sparrow

February 2, 2015

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Donna Bise

February 1, 2015

Lizzy and Ian, we were neighbors in Elizabeth oh so many years ago, when you were little ones. Your dad and I would cross paths in the news biz over the years, as Ian and I did at Children's Theatre. Just want you to know that you are in my thoughts, with deepest sympathy.

Trigg Merritt

February 1, 2015

Brad and I were best friends, and I loved him very much. I am truly heart-broken that he is no longer a big part of not only my life, but of many lives. Brad was the best man at my wedding as I was at his. We spent so many great times together, and I will cherish those memories. I knew Brad to be a very kind, gentle, free-spirited soul, and always willing to help with anything. It was truly an honor and a privilege just to know Brad. I already miss him greatly. Condolences and prayers go out to his family during this very difficult time. Brad is certainly an example of a wonderful guy gone much too soon. R.I.P., my friend!

Rita Powell

February 1, 2015

Deepest sympathy to Mr. Staffords family & to many others that loved him dearly. As a faithful WBTV viewer we will miss him as well.

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