John W. Sanford

Mr. John W. Sanford, age 75, of College Grove, TN passed away on September 5, 2025 at his residence. He was born in Franklin, TN, grew up in Nolensville, TN, and spent the last 56 years in College Grove, TN. John was a son of the late Charles Warner “Mickey” Sanford and Pauline Johnson Sanford. Mr. Sanford was employed as a regulatory liaison for Dairy Farmers of America. He was of the Christian faith. Mr. John served the Horton Highway Utility District on the Board of Directors for 26 years, was a former member of the College Grove Fire Department, and most recently served on the Board of Directors for Williamson Fire & Rescue. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, James “Jim” Sanford, Charles “Wolf” Sanford, and a nephew, Nathan Jackson.

John loved his job and serving others. He enjoyed sports including basketball, college football, little league series, and college game day. John loved listening to 60’s and 70’s music and gardening. He loved to watch NASCAR racing and cheer on his favorite drivers and to travel. He cared deeply for his cats, Wednesday and Sunday. Most of all, he loved his family, spending time with them, and supporting with them in activities.

Mr. Sanford is survived by wife of 56 years Mrs. Gail Rollins Sanford of College Grove, TN; children; Chris W. (Courtney) Sanford of Chapel Hill, TN, Amanda Sanford Young of Unionville, TN; 4 grandchildren, Andrew W. (Heather) Sanford, Ethan W. Reed, Henry Young, Layne Sanford; 2 great grandchildren, Kinsley Grace Sanford, Kane Greyson Sanford; sister, Karen (Steve) Hatcher of the Flat Creek Community; sisters in law: Sheila Swartz of College Grove, TN, Nancy Pence of Lewisburg, TN, Corrine Walden of Murfreesboro, TN; several nieces and nephews and many other loving family members.

Visitation with the family will be on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 from 4 PM until 8 PM at Lawrence Funeral Home. The graveside service will be at 11 AM on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 at Triune Cemetery with Rev. Gerald Cook officiating. Interment will follow in Triune Cemetery, Arrington, TN.

Active pallbearers will be Jamie Sanford, Michael Sanford, Jim Sanford, Allen Pence, Brandon Jackson, and Ryan Jackson. Honorary pallbearers will be Jimmy Baker, Miller Culberson, Wayne Banner, Bob Moran, Jerry Davis, Kenny Morton, Johnny Morton, Uncle Babe Ridley, Roger Hooi, and Steve Hatcher.

For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice.

LAWRENCE FUNERAL HOME and CREMATION SERVICES, 203 South Horton Pkwy, Chapel Hill, TN, (931) 364-2233, is in charge of arrangements.