Sanford Eugene Reynolds Sr.

Sanford Eugene Reynolds
1944 – 2025
With deep sadness and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Sanford Reynolds, who departed this life to Heaven on June 4, 2025, at age 80.
Born in Pattonsburg, Missouri, on September 15, 1944, Sanford was a beloved husband, devoted father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, cherished brother, and loyal friend to many.
Sanford was a true outdoorsman, a man who never quite retired because he loved what he did. Whether trenching miles of tile lines, building ponds, or simply playing in the dirt with his heavy equipment, "Big Boy Toys," he was happiest with his overalls, boots on, and hands at work. If he wasn't operating a dozer, you could find him by the pond, fishing rod in hand, or watching his grandchildren ride the gravel roads on golf carts, go-karts, and four-wheelers; those moments lit up his heart.
Sanford got his start early in life, running his first dozer at just 10 years old for his father, Sanford Owen Reynolds. After working with his dad for many years, he went on to work for Clarkson and Mike Miller before partnering in business with his brother, Colin Cornett, and ultimately founding his own company, Reynolds Excavating, which he proudly operated for 47 years. Throughout his career, Sanford worked closely with his sons, Russell and Gene Reynolds; his nephew, Terry Cornett; and his brothers, Jerry and Duffy Reynolds. His legacy of hard work and passion for the land lives on through them.
A graduate of Gallatin R-5 High School, Class of 1962, Sanford also served six years in the U.S. Army Reserves as an Engineer and was recognized as an Expert Marksman.
Fishing for Sanford was more than a hobby; it brought him peace and joy. He delighted in the thrill of the catch and took great pride in passing on that joy to his grandchildren and the younger generations of the family.
Sanford was a man of generosity and grit. Known for his unmatched work ethic, kind heart, and willingness to help others, he gave freely without expecting anything in return. Whether with family, friends, or strangers, he always showed up ready to lend a hand.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Annabelle and Sanford Reynolds; three brothers, Colin Cornett, Robert "Corky", and Casey; and one grandchild, Sunshine Wiggins.
Left to cherish his memories are his loving wife, Stella Reynolds, whom he married on February 9, 1973. Siblings: Jerry Reynolds, Duffy Reynolds, and Cheryl Kniseley; and Children: Star Ruth, Cindy Gates, Russell Reynolds, and Sanford E "Gene" Reynolds II. Grandchildren: Star Sanborn, Ernest Wiggins, Paul Allen III, Sheila Stuteville, Noah Reynolds, Callie Bond, Zoey Reynolds and Zeven Reynolds; Great-Grandchildren: Austin Zimmerman, Tyler Prall, Keith Perugini, Ian Wiggins and Adriana Wiggins, Alicia Setzer, Haley Allen, Garrett Paul Allan, and Justin Bybee, Jamison Bond, Oliver Bond and Brody Bond; Great-Great Grandchildren; Travis Setzer, Kasen Setzer, and Baylor Setzer.
Sanford's additional memories include countless nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many lifelong friends. Sanford had a way of making everyone feel like family, and he never knew a stranger. His presence was a gift, and he will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved.
(As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another – Proverbs 27:17)
A Celebration of Life will be held will be held on Saturday, June 28 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. at Roberson Funeral Home, Pattonsburg, MO. Inurnment will be held at a later date in Civil Bend Christian Cemetery, Pattonsburg, MO. Memorials may be made to Civil Bend Christian Cemetery and/or Stella Reynolds in care of Roberson Funeral Home, P.O. Box 152, Pattonsburg, MO 64670. Online condolences may be left at www.robersonfuneralhome.com.
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