Ben Stafford, Sr.

Ben Stafford Sr., age 79, passed away Monday, September 14, 2026, at North Mississippi Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oxford, MS. 

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Wells Funeral Home. Following the visitation, the graveside service will be held at Pleasant Grove Cemetery on Highway 315 near Sledge, MS. 

Ben was born on June 8, 1947, in Sledge, MS, to the late George W. Stafford and Beatrice Kimbrough Stafford. He will be remembered as a hardworking man whose life was marked by skill, faith, and the simple joys he loved most. 

Ben spent most of his life working in construction, primarily as a skilled carpenter. He took great pride in his work and in his ability to build with his hands. Those who knew him also knew of his love for music. He was a talented musician and singer, with the guitar being his favorite instrument. These gifts brought joy to his life and to those around him. Ben also enjoyed fishing with his wife, Patricia, and those times together were truly among the moments he treasured most. 

Although Ben was unable to attend church in person during his later years, he remained a man of Christian faith. That faith continued to be a meaningful part of his life. 

Ben leaves behind his precious wife of 19 years, Patricia Stafford; his children, Mary Elizabeth “Cookie” Seguin, Billy Stafford, Ben Stafford Jr., Michael Stafford, Stephanie Rodriguez, Shane Morgan, and Benjamin Stafford; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom he adored dearly. 

Ben is also survived by his two sisters, Sadie Anderson and Annie B. Arbuckle; and one brother, J.B. Stafford. 

Ben also had several stepchildren whom he cared for and loved deeply. 

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Henry Earl Stafford; his sister Jeannie and Mary Catherine and his three brothers, Albert Stafford, Henry McNally, and Richard McNally.