Maxine Sanford

Maxine Sanford, nee Taylor-Casey, 89, of Scott City, Missouri, passed away June 5, 2017 at Chateau Girardeau in Cape Girardeau, MO.

Mrs. Sanford was born June 3, 1928, in Flora, Illinois, the daughter of Ora Ruth Taylor-Casey.

Mrs. Sanford attended Fornfelt Public School and was a high school graduate of The American School.

On August 10, 1945 Maxine married William Sanford Jr, of Ancell, MO. They shared almost 72 years of marriage.

Maxine was fortunate to have been a homemaker throughout her children’s growing years. Later, she enjoyed writing feature stories for the Sikeston Daily Standard and reporting the court news for Scott County.

Maxine thoroughly enjoyed anything pertaining to history. One of Maxine’s most enjoyable hobbies was serving as an Election judge for Scott County for many years. Maxine was a member and former President of the Scott City Garden Club; a former member of the park board of Scott City; and chairperson of the Illmo-Fornfelt school reunion committee, working tirelessly to collect and gather pictures of former classes from years past.  These pictures were framed and hung in the school.

Maxine had many hobbies including making hundreds of dozens of candied mints for weddings and showers, which earned her recognition in the Globe Democrat. She also enjoyed spending time with her husband at their farm picking up pecans.   In 1976, the Missouri department of Conservation made an official visit to the farm, certifying Maxine’s favorite pecan trees “Bicentennial” which meant they were older than our nation. Maxine was especially proud that the farm had historical significance.

Maxine was a Christian and member of the Cornerstone Wesleyan Church of Scott City, MO.

Maxine is survived by her husband, William Sanford Jr of Chateau Girardeau; three children: Barbara (Larry) Spiers of St. Clair, MO; Steve (Brenda) Sanford of Scott City, MO; and Rebecca (Jim) Dattilo of Cincinnati, OH; 13 Grandchildren; 15 Great-Grandchildren; and 2 Great-Great Grandchildren; other relatives and friends.

Maxine was preceded in death by her mother.

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 9, from 11-1 at the Cornerstone Wesleyan Church of Scott City, with the funeral at 1:00pm with Pastor Kevin Ropp officiating. Interment will be in Lightner Cemetery, Scott City.

Memorials may be given to the church.