Search by Name

Search by Name

Charles Francis Sanford Jr.

1935 - 2021

BORN

1935

DIED

2021

FUNERAL HOME

B.W. Foster Funeral Home - Portsmouth

1926 High St

Portsmouth, Virginia

Charles Sanford Obituary

Charles Francis Sanford, Jr. (Buddy), 85, passed away August 11, 2021, in his sleep. He was born November 18, 1935, to Catherine Gerstner and Charles Sanford.

Buddy was predeceased by his wife, Barbara, and son William Paul. Left to cherish his memory are his son Tab; daughter Peggy; and sister Dotty Ann (Bill); 3 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and all the friends he made throughout his life.

Buddy worked as a photographer, photoengraver, and insurance agent, retiring from ODU Print Shop. He was extremely proud of being a halfback on the only St. Paul football team, in the 1950s. Buddy should be remembered by one of his favorite phrases, which helped him through his many illnesses: "Life is Good." The family would like to thank all the doctors and aides who helped Buddy along his path.

Burial will be private, at a later date. Condolences may be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com.

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

Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Aug. 22, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Charles Sanford

Sponsored by the family.

Not sure what to say?





5 Entries

Mike Hudgins

August 24, 2021

Tab and Peggy,
We are sorry for the loss of your father. Buddy was so special. I had the pleasure of seeing his work in high school and also when I delivered printing supplies to him at ODU. Our prayers are with you and your family.

Bob Colgin

August 22, 2021

Tab,
I am so very sorry to hear about you dad passing. May God bless you and your family during this very difficult time.

JoAnn Whalen

August 22, 2021

When I was in high school Buddy took pictures of the girls basketball team I was on. I had not met him at that point but after I finished college I found myself working with his wonderful wife Barbara and met him through her. He was always the warmest personality in the room, and always had a story to tell of Portsmouth. He and Barbara took pictures at my wedding as they shared my special day. Later he surprised me by finding the pictures from my high school days and sharing them with me, he was so thoughtful. He will be missed by many but I find solace in having the pleasure of knowing both him and Barbara. Love to the family and may his memory bring you comfort.

Damon Brabson

August 17, 2021

Entering Portsmouth Catholic h.S. was an exciting moment for me as an eighth grader and sports , where I joined the cross country team and followed the example of the upper classman, my eldest brother Darryl and Tab Sanford in particular and some others, as I grew and became aware of the pictures being taken by Mr. Sanford and his extremely kind personality , we all became so fond and knew when he was around lots of pictures would be taken for the different sports events, quite a lot always made you feel comfortable. 30 plus years pass by and Facebook came out where we became friends again after so many years , he would always check in on me to know that I was OK , for quite sometime and always made me feel good and the fond memories of growing up part of the Saints family. My sincere condolences to the Sanford family, Tab and Peggy special hugs with blessings always.

Bernie Kirsch

August 17, 2021

My deepest sympathy to Buddy’s family.

He was a good man and should be remembered for his kindness.

May he rest in eternal peace.

Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results

Make a Donation
in Charles Sanford's name

Memorial Events
for Charles Sanford

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

B.W. Foster Funeral Home - Portsmouth

1926 High St, Portsmouth, VA 23704

How to support Charles's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Charles Sanford's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more