Carlos Russell Stafford, Sr.

Carlos Russell Stafford, Sr. passed away peacefully at the age of 85 on April 23, 2025, at his home in Ada, Oklahoma, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

Carlos was born on January 19, 1940, in Kingston, Oklahoma, to Everett "Red" Zack and Ozella Marie (Neasbitt) Stafford. He graduated from Madill High School then enlisted in the United States Army in 1958, where he proudly served in the medical field. Throughout his distinguished military career, Carlos was stationed in various locations across the United States, as well as in Vietnam, France, and Germany.

Carlos served in the United States Army from August 30, 1958, to September 16, 1988, with honor and distinction. A veteran of the Vietnam War, he earned numerous prestigious awards in recognition of his bravery, dedication, and selflessness, including:

*Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (1st Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Commendation Medal (1st Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Services Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 4 Campaign Stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Honor Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Oversees Service Ribbon

These honors reflect his dedication and exceptional service throughout his military career. Carlos's exemplary service is a testament to his unwavering commitment to his country.

In 1970, while stationed at The Presidio of San Francisco, Carlos met and married Sandra "Sandy" Lee Stafford, the love of his life. Together, they raised four children: Carlos R. Stafford, Jr., Shawn W. Stafford, Cassandra R. (Stafford) McGilbray, and Shane E. Stafford.

After more than 30 years of dedicated services, Carlos retired from the Army in 1988 with the rank of Sergeant Major in the HQ Health Services Command at Fort Sam Houston.  Carlos and his family moved to Wetumka, Oklahoma where they lived for over 35 years. There he embraced the life of a farmer, enjoying the company of horses, chickens, dogs, and many other animals. Carlos loved spending much of his free time gardening, hunting, fishing, and attending the activities of his children and grandchildren.

Carlos, affectionately known as "PawPaw," was blessed with nine grandchildren: Taylor S. McGilbray, Cheyenne C. Stafford, Alyssa R. McGilbray, Brayden R. McGilbray, Kagan F. Stafford, Sierra R. Stafford, Zoey Stafford, Holland Stafford, and Opal E. Stafford.

Carlos is survived by his loving wife, Sandra L. Stafford of Ada, OK; his children: Carlos R. Stafford, Jr. of Ada, OK; Shawn W. Stafford and wife Michelle of Brandenburg, KY; Cassandra R. McGilbray and husband David of Ada, OK; and Shane E. Stafford of Joplin, MO. He is also survived by his sister, Myrtle Mae Walker of Dangerfield, TX; brothers Everett "China" M. Stafford of Wetumka, OK, and Bascom "Buck" H. Stafford of Randlett, OK; nine grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings: Robert L. Stafford, Joy Lee "Marvin" Stafford, Brenda S. (Stafford) Mabin, and Terry M. Stafford.

Pallbearers will be David McGilbray, Brayden McGilbray, Carlos Stafford, Kagan Stafford, Courtney Stevenson, and Jalen Jessepe. Honorary pallbearers will include Everett "China" Marion Stafford and Bascom "Buck" Hugh Stafford.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on May 1, 2025, at Oak Avenue Baptist Church in Ada, OK. The service will include military honors as well as the Chickasaw honor guard. Carlos will be interred at Rosedale Cemetery in Ada, OK.  The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday at Criswell Funeral Home.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all who have supported them during this time. Carlos will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, service, and devotion will never be forgotten.