Gary Lee Stanford

Gary Lee Stanford, 68, of Lake Jackson, Texas, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 23, 2024, surrounded by his loving family after his battle with lung cancer.

If Gary Stanford ever crossed your path, he would ask, "Were you born in Texas? Ever been to Garner State Park? We have vacation rental cabins in Concan, Texas."

Gary was bright, funny, and had a friendly greeting that instantly made everyone feel welcome. He was an incredibly talented woodworker whose craftsmanship is best showcased in his home and at Rock-N-Cedar Ranch in the Texas Hill Country near the Frio River. Many family, friends, and visitors have enjoyed the beauty and care poured into every detail of the Ranch he, Polly, and dear friend Bob "Ranch Boss" Lassetter built from the ground up.

Gary also had a love for hot rods, drag racing, surfing, and skateboarding. He shared his passion for racing and working on cars with his sons and the many young men who would be at the house. He loved his talks with the guys and creating countless memories under the hood and on the track. But above all else, Gary loved his bride, Polly, was endlessly proud of his sons, Brian and Grant, and cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren.

We think this sums up Gary Stanford: "We didn't know Gary and Polly very well at all but can say that the moment we met them, we felt comfortable and invited. That day we first visited, y'all invited us to tour your property. We knew you had to get on the road, but y'all made the time and made us feel welcome and made us feel like you had all the time in the world for us. We could tell immediately what a sweet, caring, kind, and friendly person Gary was. You know, he was one of those people you meet and think, 'Man, I want to be that person's friend.'" Written by a new landowner near the Ranch. 

Gary was fortunate to have many long-time close friends who were like family to him, and he held those relationships close to his heart.

Gary was born to Bobby and Nadine Stanford in Angleton, Texas, on August 20, 1956. He was predeceased by his father, mother, and grandparents.

Gary is survived by the love of his life, wife of 43 years, Polly Ann (Tollett) Stanford, of Lake Jackson; son Brian Michael Stanford, of Richwood; and son Grant Matthew Stanford, of Lake Jackson. The six grandchildren he adored: Leland, Landon, Ronnie, Piper, Greyson, and Savannah, who will forever hold their beloved "Paw Paw" in their hearts.

Gary is also survived by his siblings: Kenny Stanford (Mary) of West Columbia, Bruce Stanford (Sherry) of Brazoria, Carol Stanford Jones (Chuck) of Lake Jackson, Shari Stanford of Helotes, and Vicky Stanford Mayo (Darell) of West Columbia. 

Funeral services will be Monday, December 30, at Brazoria First Assembly. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., and the service will begin at 12:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Brazoria Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be close friends Mike Follett, Jim Follett, Chuck Seidler, Phil Gundy, Billy Jenn, Frank Drabek, and Steven Weir. Honorary pallbearers will include Bob Lassetter, Gary Stevens, Scott Brigance, and Lee Buck.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Dixon Funeral Home of Brazoria at (979) 798-9113.

The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, support, and kindness extended by so many during this time of loss.

Please visit Dixon Funeral Home's website to leave online condolences, light a candle, and send floral arrangements or gifts to the family at www.dixonfuneralhome.com.

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