Francis Riley Sanford, 86, formerly of rural New Knoxville, OH died 2:00 a.m. Wednesday June 27, 2018 at his residence in Port Richey, FL.

He was born January 8, 1932 near Buckland, OH to Francis James and Audrey (Farris) Sanford. On January 5, 1954 he married Josephine Chenault, who died October 6, 1999.

Survivors include: daughter Lou Rae (George) Reeves of Springfield, IL; daughter Jodi (David) Thomas of Port Richey, FL; son Matt (Terrie) Sanford of St. Marys, OH; 8 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; brother Leonard Sanford of Ft. Myers, FL; and sister-in-law Ellarose Ramsey of Clearwater, FL.

Preceded in death by: parents Francis James and Audrey Sanford; wife Josephine Chenault; brother A.J. Sanford; brother Samuel Sanford; sister Vernita Jump; sister Bella Gibbs; sister Betty Rockwood; sister Lorraine Cook.

Mr. Sanford was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, having served his country during the Korean War.

He retired from General Dynamics (Tank Plant) in Lima, OH.

His favorite pastimes included fishing, taking care of his small farm and spending time with his grandchildren.

Services are scheduled to begin 11:00 a.m. Tuesday July 3, 2018 at the Miller Funeral Home 1605 Celina Road (Ohio 703 West Chapel) in St. Marys.

Burial, with full graveside military honors, will follow at the Elm Grove Cemetery in St. Marys.

Visitation 6-8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Condolences may be expressed to his family via: wwww.millerfuneralhomes.net.