Sanford Junior Cole , affectionately known as "Sonny," passed away peacefully at the age of 84 on December 22, 2024 with his family by his side.  He was born on January 11, 1940, in Stafford County, Virginia, he was the beloved son of Herman and Lucilla Cole. Tragically, God called his mother home just three weeks after his birth. At one month old, Sanford was lovingly raised by his uncle and aunt, John and Irene Berryman, who became his parents.

Sanford was educated in Stafford County Public Schools and later married the love of his life, Juanita Allen, on November 19, 1960. Together, they built a beautiful life in Hartwood, Virginia, and welcomed four cherished children: Sanford II, Alethea, Stewart, and Curley.

Sanford dedicated much of his career to the Maintenance Machine Shop at the Quantico Marine Base, where he worked until retirement. Not one to remain idle, he later took on a role as groundskeeper for Geico Insurance Company, retiring twice more after his return due to his love for the work.

In August 1973, Sanford gave his life to Christ and was baptized at Mount Olive Baptist Church in Stafford, Virginia. A devout servant of the Lord, he actively contributed to the church as a groundskeeper, kitchen volunteer, and member of the Men's Chorus. Even after stepping back due to illness, his faith and dedication remained unwavering.

Sanford found joy in farming, raising cattle, working in his garden, and cooking for family and friends. Whether riding his beloved 50-year-old tractor or hosting lively cookouts, his love for life and family shone brightly.

He leaves behind his devoted wife of 64 years, Juanita "Wannie" Cole; his children: Sanford Cole Jr. (Karen), Alethea Cole, Stewart Cole, and Curley Cole; 13 grandchildren: Tyrone, Michelle, Juanita, Lynette (Dominguez), Shonda, Precious, Terrell (AB), Denzel (Christine), John, Terrance, Darren, Jalona, and Hughmari; 24 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He is also survived by three aunts: Dorothy Cole, Betty Wormly, and Bertha Cole; sister and brother-in-law Christopher and Elaine Baily; daughters-in-law Karen Cole and Teresa Cole; and a special cousin who was like a brother, James Leon Parker (Mann).

Sanford was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Lucilla Cole, and John and Irene Berryman; stepmother, Fannie Cole; five brothers: Alfred, Bailey, Wade, Curley, and Carl Berryman; and five sisters: Catherine Collins, Ethel Jackson, Ruth Beverly, Myrtle Berryman, and Emily Pendleton.

Sanford's life was a testament to faith, family, and service. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his unwavering love, warm hospitality, and tireless devotion to those he cherished.

A viewing will be held at A.L. Bennett and Son Funeral Home, 200 Butternut Drive, Fredericksburg, VA, 22408, on Friday, January 10, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM and one hour before the funeral service. A funeral service will be held at Mount Olive Baptist Church, 395 Mt. Olive Road, Stafford, VA, 22555, on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 11:00 AM. The interment will follow at the Mount Olive Baptist Church Cemetery.