Virgil Ray Stanaford

In Loving Memory of Virgil Ray Stanaford

Virgil Ray Stanaford passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, in Eaton, Ohio, cradled in the arms of his nephew and "best boy,” Adam Lyons, and surrounded by many family members who loved him dearly. After a long and hard-fought health battle, Virg entered the arms of his Savior, Jesus, and found the peace and rest he had so faithfully looked forward to.

Born on August 22, 1952, in Paintsville, Kentucky, to Nelvina “Toodie” (Wells) and Virgil Stanaford, he was truly one of a kind from the very start. Lovingly called “Big Virg” because of his large stature, he had a personality just as big as his heart. He made friends wherever he went, and had a way of making an ordinary day a little brighter. Whether riding his bike, walking around town, or stopping to visit with friends at McDonald’s or Taco Bell, Virg loved being around people-and people loved being around him.

Above all, Virg was a man of faith. He was never ashamed of his love for Jesus and wanted everyone he met to know about his Savior. A true prayer warrior, Virg prayed for others, encouraged them, and shared the hope he had found through his faith. His familiar Jesus hats were simple but meaningful reminders of the faith that was at the center of his life.

For more than twenty years, Virg was a faithful member of Redemption Christian Tabernacle, where his giant faith continued to grow, and where he and his church family grew to mean so much to each other.

After Jesus, Virg’s greatest love was his family. He especially cherished the bond he shared with his brother, best friend, and roommate of 30 years, Richard. Their relationship was truly special.

Virg is survived by his siblings, Richard Stanaford Sr., Ella (Tom) Pendleton, Sandy Stanaford Nelson, and Mary (Dana) Lyons; as well as several nephews, nieces, cousins, and countless friends who were blessed to know him.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mary and Green Wells and Caroline and Enoch Stanaford; his brothers, Russell “Rutt,” James “Jimbo,” Robert, and Enoch Stanaford; his nieces, Rachel and Elizabeth Stanaford; and his great-nephews, James “Jimmy” and Marty “Bub” Stanaford.

Virg will also be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor. He loved telling jokes, making people laugh, and seeing someone smile. He had a gift for bringing a little joy into the lives of those around him. More than anything, Big Virg understood that people mattered. Throughout his 74 years, he touched countless lives in ways he may have never fully realized.

Big Virg’s life was defined not by possessions or accomplishments, but by faith, family, laughter, and love. He loved God, he loved his family, he loved his friends, and he never hesitated to let them know it.

For Virg, death was never the end. His faith taught him that this life was temporary and that something far greater awaited him. After a long and difficult health battle, Big Virg is finally free from his earthly struggles. He has finished his race.

There is comfort in knowing that the man who spent so much of his life telling others about Jesus is now with the Savior he loved so deeply. The prayers he prayed, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

Until we meet again, Big Virg. You truly are blessed and highly favored.

A celebration of life will be held at Redemption Christian Tabernacle on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. 11780 N. Dixie Dr. Tipp City, OH 45371 at 1pm. Please join us to celebrate Big Virg's homecoming.

To share a memory of Virgil or leave a special message for his family, please visit the Guestbook below.