Frances Madaris Stanford

Frances Madaris Stanford, age 92, of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, stepped into heaven on September 23, 2025. She was born on August 10, 1933, to Charles and Mattie Madaris. Frances graduated from the University of Alabama and was married to Joe Stanford.

She will be remembered for the way she loved and cared for people, whether family, friends, friends of family or her students. She was an elementary school teacher in Okaloosa County and a long-time, faithful member of First Baptist Church of Fort Walton Beach where she served in the International Ministry. It is her love for Jesus that gave her the heart to love and serve others.

She is predeceased by her husband Joe, her son Glenn, her parents, and all eight of her brothers and sisters.

Frances is survived by her son Gary Stanford (Kelly), 4 grandchildren: Sherry Painter, Matthew Stanford (Lynnlee), Rachel Stanford and Stephen Stanford (Emma), also 4 great-grandchildren: Caden Painter, Charlee Stanford, Piper Stanford, and Daniel Stanford. In addition, 2 sisters-in-law, Kay Madaris and Nell Madaris as well as Sherry's mom, Sharon Triplett (Barry), and Caden's father, Ryan Painter. She also leaves and is loved by many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 2:00 at First Baptist Church, Fort Walton Beach. The family will receive visitors one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at a later date at Beal Memorial Cemetery. Flowers will be received by the family, or donations may be made to First Baptist Church, Ft. Walton Beach.

McLaughlin Mortuary is entrusted with the arrangements.

Expressions of love and sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at www.mclaughlinmortuary.com