Michael Shane Stafford

Son to Leona Faye Stafford and Rayford Lee Stafford.

Husband to Karen Stafford

Father to Megan Marie and Rachel Anne

Brother to Steve Stafford

Cousin to John Shafer, Marty Stern and Gene Broyles

Uncle Mike to Abby, Annie, Ally, Kelley and Justin

And friend to so many.

Let me first say Mike was the love of my life for 36 years (he was spoiled rotten and he knew it). He was my best friend. From our first date, he made me laugh with his quirky sense of humor. We were entwined like rope. Many times he would say something like: “Let’s go to Village Inn” and I would say “ I was just thinking the same thing”. He loved his family and his children and would speak about them to all who would listen.

He was a great father always telling the girls “I am so proud of you, I love you, you are so special”.

When they were younger he would participate and teach them things they enjoyed like upwards basketball or take them to discovery cove, where they swam with the dolphins. He would also always try to teach them about Jesus.

He had such great wisdom too they could ask him just about anything about life and he would give them such great advice. The legacy of Mike’s kind spirit, passion for sports, love of reading and zest for life will live on through them.

Mike was also loved as a friend by many. He always had a smile on his face and a kind word to say. There was nothing Mike liked more than to tell a good story about days gone by or trips he had taken, hunting with his 3 dogs and how well they had done or not done, or trips he was going to take.

Mike’s indomitable spirit will encourage his family and friends to persist in the face of many struggles. In the end, Mike was a person of faith and lived life serving others. I will miss you dear sweet Mike, my husband and best friend.

Love and prayers for your incredible journey and for sharing 36 beautiful years with me and 60 years with your friends and family.

I will miss you every day for the rest of my life.

Love,

Karen.