Gone way too soon, William Anthony “Tony” Stafford, 52, of Statesville, NC, went to meet his Savior on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. He had been diagnosed with cancer in January 2026. It was an incredibly short fight, and he fought hard. He grew his relationship much closer to God during this time, and his faith was strong. As Tony’s diagnosis continued to change and his prognosis worsened, his spirit grew, and his hope was that his suffering would save many. His cross was heavy, but in the end, his righteousness was godly!

Matthew 11:28-29

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

He is loved deeply by his wife and children. He met Robyn in Love Valley on Easter Weekend in 2001. Special thanks to a mutual friend, Bubs, for introducing them. Tony will always be her “Mr. Wonderful.” Their love was one for the record books. They married in May 2004 and had two beautiful children, Carley and Coltyn.

Tony was born in May 1973 in VA and grew up in China Grove, NC. He graduated from South Rowan in 1991. He later moved to Mooresville and was a card-carrying member of the “Homer Ln Gang.” This is where he learned his life’s work as a land surveyor. He loved his work and did a remarkable job. He enjoyed working with G.L. Wilson for the last several years.

Besides his family, Tony loved the outdoors, his pups, and his mules. He enjoyed throwing horseshoes with the Homer Ln. Gang at his dad’s on Lake Norman. He wasn’t born into farming but enjoyed building one with his wife, T&R Farm.

Tony was preceded in death by his mother, Terry Robichaud Gentle; grandparents, David (“Big Red”) and Frances Stafford, Joe and Helen Robichaud; father-in-law, Chuck Wicker; uncles, Mark Stafford, David Burgess, Clarence Hylton, and Mike Robichaud; aunt, Christi Hylton; and cousins, Davy Burgess and Laila Serpe.

Left to cherish Tony’s memory are his wife and children; his dad, William Wright “Bill” Stafford; his loving sister, Katie Smith (Butch); stepfather, Clif Gentle; along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and coworkers.

The family welcomes everyone to come celebrate the life of this wonderful man on March 21, 2026, at T&R Farm. The service will be at the barn between 1:00 and 3:00 p.m., with food and fellowship to follow. Please bring your own chairs, 99 Francis Queen Rd., Moravian Falls, NC 28654

Helping the family with arrangements are Carolina Cremation, and dear friends Michael and Camie Morris.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to the family or a charitable organization.

Carolina Cremation of Salisbury is assisting the Stafford family. Online Condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com.