Harry Lee “Butch” Stafford Jr., 81, beloved husband of Karen King Stafford, passed away Friday, August 23, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Canton, Ohio, Harry was a son of the late Harry L. and Mildred Graham Stafford Sr. He dedicated 27 years of his life to teaching middle school in Lewis County where he made a lasting impact on countless students. Harry also served the community as the former chairman of the Lewis County Democratic Party and held a position as a city councilman in Vanceburg.
With a remarkable ability to weave a tale, Butch was known for his storytelling and loved sharing long, entertaining narratives with those around him. His warm presence and jovial nature will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
In addition to his wife of 38 years, Karen, survivors include three daughters, Melissa Sue Stafford Bentley (Brad) of Vanceburg, Patricia D. Jackson (Kevin) of North Augusta, South Carolina, and Catherine Rose Fillback (Jason) of Fairborn, Ohio; his son, Frank L. Clark (Athena) of Ansonia, Ohio; 15 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and a number of nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four siblings, Robert Lee Stafford, Joseph Stafford, Ray Stafford, and stillborn sister.
A Celebration of Life will be at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, September 8, 2027, at Orangeburg Methodist Church. Burial will be in Liles Cemetery at Camp Dix.
Shellhouse-Rivers Funeral Home in Aiken, South Carolina, is caring for arrangements.
