Sanford Wallace Gray

Sanford Wallace Gray, 79, of Abbeville, husband of Melinda Clark Gray, died Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at Piedmont Augusta Hospital.  He was born in Abbeville to the late James Wallace and Margaret McKee Gray.

Sanford graduated from Abbeville High School, a proud member of the Class of 1963.  Devoted to serving his country, he enlisted in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War.  Sanford dedicated many years of his life to Pirelli Cable, which is now known as Prysmian Cable.  Additionally, he worked at Isolyser with great commitment.   

Sanford had a wide range of interests and hobbies that brought him great pleasure.  In his early years, he raced # 25 on the dirt track at the Anderson Speedway.  He enjoyed watching NASCAR races and admired the thrill of high-speed competition.  Woodworking was another one of Sanford’s talents.  He also enjoyed candle making and camping trips that allowed his to reconnect with nature. 

Family was the cornerstone of Sanford’s life.  He adored his wife, children and grandchildren and cherished every moment spent with them.  Sanford’s legacy to his children was the importance of faith, honesty and love.  His greatest legacy, however, was setting an example of good character.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Linda Christine Gray; a grandson, John Wyatt; three brothers, Randel Gray, Terry Gray and Kenneth Gray

Sanford is survived by his wife of 59 years, Melinda, of the home; three sons, Derick Gray and his wife Kelly, John Gray and his wife Sheila, all of Abbeville and Chris Gray and his wife Julee of Greenwood; daughter, Alison Funt and her husband Shaul of Evans, GA; eleven grandchildren, Jason, Chesnee, Austin, Brittany, Jacob, Christine, Elizabeth, Melinda, LeeAnna, Emma and David; and four great-grandchildren, Eleanor, Cullen, Madeline and Joy.

The family will receive friends 1:00PM – 2:00PM, Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Harris Funeral Home, Abbeville Chapel.  Funeral services will begin at 2:30PM in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Garrett Hart officiating.  Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Memory Gardens with military honors.

The family is at the home.

Memorial contributions, in memory of Sanford, may be sent to the American Cancer Society, 1901 Brunswick Ave., Suite 100, Charlotte, NC 28207.

A message of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting www.harrisfuneral.com.

Harris Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Abbeville is assisting the Gray family.