Paul E. Stanford

Paul Edward Stanford was born on November 20, 1932, in McGehee, Arkansas, to the late Charles Glen Stanford and Lillian Beatrice Hossfeld Stanford. He grew up in Tillar, Arkansas, alongside his four brothers and two sisters, building the strong family foundation that would shape the rest of his life.

At 19 years old, Paul joined the United States Air Force, where he proudly served for 27 years as a boom operator.

While stationed in Texas, he met his wife at a restaurant; she was his waitress, and that chance meeting began their 56-year marriage. His military career took him around the world, including a station in Okinawa, where he and his wife welcomed their only child.

In 1979, Paul and his family moved to Bossier City, Louisiana, and after he retired from the Air Force, he began his second career as the beloved “tree truck man,” planting trees in Greenacres Place and many newly developed subdivisions throughout the city. His work helped shape the landscape of the community he called home.

Lovingly known as “Poppy,” Paul was a hardworking man who loved his family deeply. He could be found building model airplanes, working on a puzzle, or fixing things around the house. He enjoyed golf, fishing, visiting with old military buddies, and keeping to a steady routine. For 20 years, his daughter was the apple of his eye and then came the grandbabies. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for them. His great-grandsons became his pride and joy in every way.

Paul was a devoted family man who always put others before himself, ensuring his loved ones had everything they needed. He never lost his sense of humor and could always be found making someone laugh. He was outspoken, headstrong, generous, and always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his four brothers, Glen Stanford, Roy Stanford, Owen Stanford, and Carol Stanford; his two sisters, Doris Taylor and Florence Henderson; and his wife of 56 years, Betty Lee Stanford. Paul was the last of the Stanford Seven.

He is survived by his daughter, Mary Ruth Freeland, and husband, John; granddaughter, Taylor Atkins; granddaughter, Alexi Wooten and husband, Evan; grandson, Noah Rodriguez and Meghan Gallagher; and grandson, Tyler Freeland. He is also survived by two great-grandsons, Levi Thomas Atkins and Shepherd Jamison Wooten, who were his pride and joy. Mr. Stanford is also survived by many nieces and nephews, whom he prided himself on being the favorite uncle.

Mr. Stanford did not wish to have a funeral filled with “frill and lace.” In honoring his wishes, the family will hold a visitation and military memorial at Bellaire Baptist Church in South Bossier. Visitation will be Sunday, March 8, 2:00 pm-3:00 pm, with a military memorial after.