James Kenneth Sandford, age 81, passed away at his home while surrounded by his loving family. He was born to Jacob and Grace Roden Sandford December 25, 1944, in Cameron, Texas.
Due to Ice / Snow at the cemetery the graveside service will be held indoors at the funeral home Friday, January 30, 2026, at 11:00 at RW Owens Funeral Home, which will be conducted by Mark Eldridge. Visitation will be at 9:30, Friday before the service at Owens Funeral Home. Pallbearers will be Aaron Deary, Walton Sims, Tyler Deary, Jacob Deary, Cole Deary, and Cooper Sims.
James joined the United States Army at age 17 and proudly served his country before retiring as a Staff Sergeant after 32 years of exemplary service.
He married Glynda Lytal May 21, 1971, in Wolfe City. He and Glynda raised two daughters.
He is survived by his daughters: Julie Deary and husband Aaron, Amy Sims and husband Walton, grandchildren Tyler Deary and wife Natalie, Jacob Deary, Cole Deary, and Cooper Sims. He is also survived by one great-grandson Nolan Deary, one sister Ann Goodman, and Sisters-in-law Lynda Reynolds and Dorris Duncan. He was preceded in death by his parents.
James enjoyed competitive shooting while he was in the military, and recreational shooting sports after he retired. He also enjoyed reading, hunting, fishing, gardening and spending time with his family and grandchildren. He took great pleasure in introducing his children and grandchildren to the activities he enjoyed including teaching them marksmanship and firearm safety. He was willing to go into great detail in properly instructing his children and grandchildren to improve their skills in the sports and activities he enjoyed.
Glynda and family, so sorry for your loss. I know the close knit family you all have and he will surely be missed by all. Sending my condolences and prayers.
I remember as a little girl when I would stay with Aunt Grace and Ann, I heard stories of Kenny and his service in Vietnam. Thank you for the wonderful tribute.
So sorry to hear of this sad news of Jim. Always was nice to me. We severed as pall bearers together at my classmates funeral in the 80s Anthony Lewis because of their affiliation in the National Guard. He was a proud American for sure. Thoughts and prayers to Glynda, Julie, Amy, and their wonderful family. I worked with Glynda up Tag for almost 48 yrs and always considered them my friends. Love ❤️ to you all.
Such a nice tribute. May God bless and keep your family.
Sorry for your family loss. Never met the man but saw his affect on his SIL and grandkids. Thank you for your service.
Julie I’m so sorry for the of your father prayers for your family love you
Julie I’m so sorry for the loss of your dad. Prayers for you and your family.
Glynda, I regret that I will not be able to attend Jim’s memorial service, but I will be praying for you and your family in your loss of Jim. I am mailing you a booklet full of comforting Scriptures entitled “Grieving with Hope”. May God comfort you through His word and knowing that others are praying for you. May He bring you joy as you reflect on: Yesterday’s influence, Today’s memories, and Tomorrow’s Reunion! Love & prayers, Judy
Glenda and family, I am so sorry for your loss. May God give you all peace during this time of grief and the days ahead.