Anthony J. Stafford

Anthony J. "Tony" Stafford, 70, a resident of Cleveland passed away Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at a Chattanooga Hospice facility. He was employed by Magic Chef/ Maytag for 32 years and he served in the Tennessee National Guard for several years. He was a faithful member of Faith Baptist Church for 21 years. Tony was a graduate of Bradley Central High School, class of 1959. He also enjoyed antique cars and riding in the mountains. He was preceded in death by parents, Leonard J. and Lela M. Miolen Stafford; brother, Timothy Stafford and mother and father-in-law, Clifford R. and Ruby L. Long. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Joyce Stafford of Cleveland; children, Chris Stafford and wife, Teresa and Kimberly Spence and husband, Troy all of Cleveland; three grandchildren, Brandon Spence, Amanda Stafford and Ashley Stafford; three great-grandchildren, Bryson Shaffer, Oliviah Spence and Savanna Spence; sister, Brenda Bryson Prince of Cleveland and brother, Leonard L. "Junior" Stafford of Cleveland; several nieces and nephews also survive and special pastor friend, Frank Nolen and wife, Faye. Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Friday, March 16, 2012 in the chapel of Fike Funeral Home with Pastor Frank Nolen officiating. Interment will follow in Sunset Memorial Gardens with Brandon Spence, Troy Spence, Dustin Nicholson, David Long, Terry Posey and Bill Watson serving as pallbearers. A white dove release ceremony will conclude the service. The family will receive friends from 4:00 - 8:00, Thursday, March 15, 2012 at the funeral home. We invite you to send a message of condolence and view the Stafford family guestbook at www.fikefh.com