HR 84

HR84 190213-1 By Representative Ford RFD: First Read: 23-JAN-18 190213-1:n:01/22/2018:JEC/jec LSA2018-397 MOURNING THE DEATH AND CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF MR. SAMUEL RAY STAFFORD. WHEREAS, we deeply regret to learn of the death of Mr. Samuel Ray Stafford of Ballplay, Alabama, on January 15, 2018, at 75 years of age, and we uplift his life and legacy with utmost reverence and respect; and WHEREAS, the passing of Mr. Samuel Ray Stafford leaves a void in the lives of his loving family, many friends, and the entire community, where he was highly regarded; and WHEREAS, an Etowah County, Alabama, native and lifelong resident, he was a faithful and dedicated member of Lebanon Church of Christ; he was a member of the United States Army while stationed in Germany for three years; he accumulated over 32 years of service at the Gadsden steel plant before it closed; he enjoyed fishing with his best friend, Ray Floyd, and gardening and sharing vegetables with family and friends; and WHEREAS, survivors include his beloved and devoted wife of 51 years, Linda Thrasher Stafford; son, Harold Ray Stafford; sisters, Carolyn (Bobby) Finley and Patricia Abbott; special cousin, Charles (Joyce) Dollahite; special niece, Sherri Padgett (Brian) Abney; he was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel Mack Stafford and Cleo Faye Dollahite Stafford; infant brother, Gerald R. Stafford; sister, Wanda Stafford Willett; special uncle, Leo Dollahite; and special grandmother, Della Dollahite; and WHEREAS, Mr. Stafford was a valued member of the community; although his presence is greatly missed, his memory is cherished in the hearts and minds of all those who were fortunate enough to know him; now therefore, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE LEGISLATURE OF ALABAMA, That while grieving the death of Mr. Samuel Ray Stafford, we are extremely grateful for his abundant life, and we offer this resolution in highest tribute to his legacy, as well as with heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends.