Ralph L. Stafford

Ralph L. Stafford, a longtime resident of Collins, Georgia, passed away on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, at the age of 86, at the East Georgia Regional Medical Center in Statesboro, Georgia. He was born on January 8, 1937, in Candler County to Ocie and Eva Stafford and grew up in Pulaski, Georgia. Ralph attended Marvin Pittman High School and later went on to work for several notable companies, including the Savannah Fire Department, Derst Baking Company, American Cyanamid, and Tronox, Inc. where he served as a maintenance superintendent, retiring after 39 years of service.

Ralph was a man of many interests and hobbies. Above all else however, he loved NASCAR and attended countless races throughout his life. He was a long-time ticket holder of the Daytona 500, being a ticket holder for over 25 years. He also enjoyed fishing, particularly in his favorite spots on the Ohoopee River, and gardening, where he operated his powered "toys," including his tractor.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, and one sister. He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Joan Hallman Stafford, his son Timothy Stafford and wife Debbie of Leesburg, Georgia, his daughter Tanya Stafford Adams and husband Luke, and two grandchildren, Elizabeth Anne Adams and Lucas Griffin Adams Jr. of Savannah, Georgia. He is also survived by one sister, Jane Stevenson of Savannah.

Ralph had expressed his wish to be cremated. A time of visitation will be held on Thursday, April 6, 2023, at Hagan United Methodist Church from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Tammy Fincher officiating. The family will have a meal of fellowship and remembrance sponsored by the Hagan United Methodist Church family following the service. Interment will take place in the Hallman Cemetery at Hopewell United Methodist Church in Tyson, Georgia.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hopewell United Methodist Church or a favorite charity in honor of Ralph's memory.  The family is grateful for all tributes and expressions of sympathy in honor of Ralph's life.

The Stafford family is being served by Low Country Cremation & Burial.