James “Jimmy” P. Sanford of Oceanport passed away July 11, 2024, at home at the age of 81. Jimmy was born Sept. 22, 1942, at Riverview Hospital, Red Bank, to John and Evelyn Sanford. A graduate of Red Bank High School, Class of 1960, he was voted “best dancer,” “class cut-up,” and “best personality.” Jimmy went on to study at Monmouth College and Murray State in Kentucky.
In his early 20s, Jimmy joined the family business, Sanford Auto Body Service, Inc., that his grandfather and father established in 1941. Later, his oldest daughter Stephanie joined the business, making it four generations. Jimmy retired in 2019, bringing a well-respected, family-owned Red Bank business to a close.
Jimmy married Gail Fenn Oct. 31, 1971, at Holy Cross Church in Rumson. He and his wife lived in Little Silver for 40 years, raising their two daughters, Stephanie and Kate, before moving to their current residence.
Jimmy was a musician who played the drums in bands until the age of 77, starting in high school with The Vick-ters, then Everyone, Inc., Carousel and, in later years, The Atlantic. In addition to music, Jimmy enjoyed sailing and boating and, as a young man, spent six years serving in the Coast Guard Reserve. Jimmy will be remembered for his quick wit, sense of humor and the ability to light up any room he entered.
Jimmy was predeceased by his father. He is survived and dearly missed by his mother, Evelyn McKee, age 106, of Pennsylvania; his wife of 52 years, Gail; his beloved daughters, Stephanie Laude of Little Silver and Kate and son-in-law Kris Peck of Little Silver; his sister Diane and brother-in-law Brian Eyes of Pennsylvania; his four grandchildren, Khloe and Kayla Peck, and Brett and Carleigh Laude; his brother-in-law James “Buzzy” Fenn of Jackson; his nieces and nephews; and his many cherished lifelong friends.
Visitation was held July 17 at Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank. A prayer service was held on July 18 at the funeral home. Interment was private.
The article originally appeared in the July 25 – 31, 2024 print edition of The Two River Times.
