Sermon delivered on May 22, 2026, by fr-matt at the funeral of jess-stanford at emmanuel-sa. Published on May 26, 2026.

Key Themes & Biographical Notes

• Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 4:18 ("Therefore comfort one another with these words").
• Early Life: Born to Methodist preacher Rev. E. Lee Stanford; raised in the Texas Panhandle during the Great Depression.
• Careers: Retired U.S. Air Force Colonel (focused on troop transport planning); civil servant for the City of San Angelo.
• Service at Emmanuel: Affiliated since 1962 (stationed at Goodfellow Air Force Base). Served as Head Usher, Eucharistic Minister, Eucharistic Visitor, Vestry member, Churchwarden, and on the finance, stewardship, and building maintenance committees.
• Legacy: Commended for his "unashamed conviviality" (referencing Archbishop Robert Runcie), meticulous chalice-bearing technique, and leadership in parish facility maintenance (including a winter 2025/2026 window replacement project).