Stanley Fred Lofton Sr.

1934 - 2026

Stanley Fred Lofton Sr. was born in Columbia County, Florida, the seventh of nine children born to the late Henry and Beatrice Lofton on the 18th day of October 1934. He was raised in Lake City, Florida, where he attended Richardson High School and completed grades one through twelve. During his school years, he developed a strong love for music and participated in the school band, a passion that would shape his life and career.
Mr. Lofton earned a scholarship to attend Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) in Tallahassee, where he performed with the renowned Marching "100", as well as the Varsity, R.O.T.C., and Symphonic Bands. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education and later earned a Master's Degree in Administration and Supervision from FAMU in 1976. Throughout his career, he expanded his teaching certifications to include Social Studies, Mathematics, and Driver's Education.
His career in education began in 1957 as Band Director at Douglas Anderson High School in Jacksonville, Florida. After serving in the United States Army, where he played in military bands, he continued his career as a band director in Wauchula and later at Peck High School in Fernandina Beach. Following school integration, he served as Band Director at Yulee Junior High School, later becoming Assistant Principal at Yulee Middle School in 1986. In 1991, he became Principal of Emma Love Hardee Elementary School, where he faithfully served until his retirement.
A man of deep faith, Mr. Lofton was a devoted member of First Baptist Church in Yulee, where he served as Superintendent of Sunday School. He was a member of Silver Square Lodge #703, where he served as Treasurer for many years.
In 1961, he married the love of his life, Marie Mathews. Together, they raised a daughter and three sons: Sheryl, Stanley II, Jonathan, and Malvin. Throughout his life, Mr. Lofton was dedicated to education, community service, and his family, leaving a lasting legacy of leadership, faith, and commitment to others.
The spirit of Stanley Fred Lofton Sr. transitioned to the next realm on March 7, 2026.
An Evening of Remembrance will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026, 5pm to 7pm at First Baptist Church (86584 Pinewood Dr, Yulee, FL, 32097)
Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, 11am to 1pm at First Baptist Church Fernandina Beach (1600 S 8th St, Fernandina Beach, FL 32034)
Interment to follow in the family plot at Beatrice and Henry Lofton Memorial Cemetery, Lake City, Florida, under the direction of Combs Funeral Home, Lake City, Florida, Marq Turner LFD. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children in Stanley's honor.
Please sign the family guest book and view the video tribute @ www.tswarden.com. Arrangements in care of Tyrone S. Warden, FDIC, 810 Beech St. Fernandina Beach, FL 32034 (904)765-1234.