With heavy hearts, Gary Scott Sanford, Age 48, of Albion, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on August 9, 2025. He was born October 25, 1976 to Bruce and Carol (Long) Sanford. He was a 1994 graduate of Hanover-Horton High School and in 1995, joined the United States Marine Corps.

Gary loved being a Marine and serving his country with his brotherhood until 2003. Following his service, he started his own business, Sanford Flooring with great pride and joy in his work.

He and his wife, Jessica were together for 23 years and were married for 15 years. Together, they and their blended family enjoyed camping, bonfires, and cookouts with their friends and extended family. Gary was an avid fisherman and always enjoyed spending time in the outdoors and with his family. He loved his family, career, and Marine brotherhood with all of his heart and soul. He jokingly said that his job was "his second wife".

Gary leaves behind his wife Jessica; his daughter Alexis (Carlos); his sons, "Big" Trevor; and "Little" Trevor; his daughter, Sarah; and daughter, Trinity. He loved being "Papa" to his grandchildren, Annabella; Elaina; Dennis; Raelynn; and his newest grandchild, Kaison.

He is preceded in death by his Mother Carol and both his maternal and paternal grandparents.

Visitation will be held on Friday, August 22, 2025 from 10:00am until the time of service. The funeral service will begin at 11:00am with Michael D. Mason, officiating. There will be Military Honors directly following his service with the American Legion Post #315 of Brooklyn, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, his family welcomes contributions in his honor to the United States Marine Corps Veterans.

Please express condolences to family and friends at www.watson-funeral-chapels.com

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

Published by Jackson Citizen Patriot from Aug. 13 to Aug. 31, 2025.

Memorial Events
for Gary Sanford

Aug

Visitation

10:00 a.m.

Brooklyn, MI

Aug

Funeral service

11:00 a.m.

Brooklyn, MI

Funeral services provided by:

Watson Funeral Chapel - Jackson

2590 Spring Arbor Rd, Jackson, MI 49203

Memories and Condolences
for Gary Sanford

Sponsored by The Family.

12 Entries

Mary Ann Hendershot-Shuster

Earlier today

On behalf of the Dale & Bette (Schultz) Hendershot family....Our deepest condolences to Bruce and the rest of Gary's family. Thank you for your service.

Sarah

Yesterday

Gary remodeled our bathroom. He was a hard-working, wonderful man who clearly loved his family. I am so heartbroken for them. May he rest in peace. ~ Sarah Richmond

john niecko

Yesterday

GARY WAS ONE OF KIND ALWAYS TALKING. THATS GARY. SADLY MISSED IN OUR PRAYERS. BIG JOHN / LIL JOHN/ WALLY NIECKO

Tucker Williams

Yesterday

I knew Gary through work.. we worked on several projects together and he was always professional and a gentleman. He took pride in the work he did, but was never boastful. I never knew he served as a Marine. Thank you so much for your service Gary.
Gary always had a warm smile on his face. No matter what! If he saw you outside of work, he didn´t shy away, he always made sure to say "hello". I recall meeting Jessica on one of those occasions in the parking lot of Lowe´s, and the love and pride that swelled on his face as he introduced her was so visible. Jessica it was obvious that you were the love of his life.
He also had Trevor working with him on a few jobs and was obviously so proud of his kids - His smile was so broad whenever he spoke about Trevor or any one of his kids. His Legacy will live on through your laughter and smiles.
Gary you will be so missed by so many that love you.
I thank you God for the opportunity to know Gary and I pray for peace, strength and serenity over those he loved so much. May you find comfort in your memories, each other and God´s promise for renewed hope every day. Rest In Peace Gary.

Buffy Caldwell

August 15, 2025

Tracy, Brad and Bruce and families I'm so sorry to hear of Gary's passing, sending love and prayers.
Tracy please let me know if you need anything my friend...

John Tomasik

August 14, 2025

RIP Gary

Katie sanford

August 14, 2025

You will forever be missed, you will forever be in our hearts. Not sure what the future will look like with out a gary in it. He was always there for his friends and family whenever they needed him. He was one in a million. The life of the party. We love you goober

Matt Blue

August 13, 2025

He will be truly missed. We didn´t talk much, but I knew he was always available a phone call away and I hope he felt the same way about me. You all lost Gary, I lost my Brother. If there is anything you need, let me know please.

August 13, 2025

Thank you for your service
Mr. Sanford.

Brad sanford

August 13, 2025

Rest in peace brother you was my big brother and my best friend and my work partner you was truly a legend and will be missed dearly

Penny Hansen

August 13, 2025

Gary was a good person. Always willing to help. I cannot believe he´s gone. My heart is broken. Love goes out to Jessica and his family so young so much to live for. With much love God bless you all, Penny Hansen.

Tom Cowen

August 11, 2025

Gonna miss you bro. My condolences to his wife and kids

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