Obituary: Dr. John Sanford, ADA Member for 66 Years

Dr. John Sanford , 97, passed away on April 6, 2025 at the Springs of Jonesboro. He was born January 11, 1928 to the late R.S and Elizabeth Waddell Sanford of Searcy.

Dr. Sanford practiced dentistry in Jonesboro for 52 years during which time he formed many enduring friendships. One of his fondest pastimes was visiting with his many friends and patients. As a music lover and accomplished trumpet player, he enjoyed being a member of the University of Arkansas marching band during his undergraduate years and especially loved playing in a dance band. He attended the University of Tennessee dental college where he graduated with honors.

After moving to Jonesboro in 1960, Dr. John was always involved in his community. In addition to being a member of First United Methodist Church, he belonged to the Jonesboro Rotary Club as well as the Jonesboro Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution and the Craighead County Historical Society. He belonged to Cub Scouts and for several years held the rank of Captain in the Jonesboro Civil Air Patrol where he was very active. Dr. Sanford received a life membership in the American Dental Association.

Music, especially jazz, was an important part in John’s life, and he loved listening to his wife play the piano and organ. He also enjoyed the outdoors and spent many years duck hunting with friends.

Dr. Sanford is survived by his wife Joy Sanford; his daughter Amy (Tim) Branum; a son Hugh (Shelly) Sanford; and stepdaughter Shanna (David) Lightfoot. He is also a proud grandfather of Seth (Allison) Branum, Katie (Conner) Veit, Ryan Sanford, and Kyle Morris. John is equally blessed to have four great-granddaughters.

He is preceded in death by his son Scott Sanford.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held Thursday April 10, 2025 at 2 PM at the Gregg-Langford Bookout Funeral Home with Tom Isbell reading the eulogy. A visitation will be held starting at 1 PM at the funeral home. Burial will be private.

Lasting memorials can be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.