Willie Mae Stanford

With hearts full of love and gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the life of Willie Mae Stanford, who was born in Lake Forest, Arkansas. Willie Mae lived a life centered on faith, family, and serving others, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, music, and devotion.

Willie Mae was the beloved daughter of Billie Ione Shipley and William Henry Shipley, both of whom preceded her in death. She shared a beautiful 56-year marriage with the love of her life, James Franklin Stanford, whose memory she carried with her always.

A woman of many talents and a joyful spirit, Willie Mae found happiness in music and playing the guitar, often filling the room with warmth and melody. She attended Oak Grove High School and went on to dedicate much of her working life to serving her community. Her career included time with the Birdville Tax Office, the Birdville School District, and Central Storage. She was also a proud member of the Birdville Teachers Retirement group.

Faith played a central role in Willie Mae’s life. She was an Adult Sunday School teacher at Riverside Baptist Church, where she touched many lives with her wisdom, compassion, and gentle guidance.

Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She leaves behind a loving family who will continue her legacy, including her daughter, Tonicia Stanford, and son, James Brent Stanford. She was a proud grandmother to James Christopher Stanford and Sara Biggs, and she warmly welcomed Sara’s husband, Ryan Biggs, as part of the family. Willie Mae was also a treasured great-grandmother to Ellianna Grace Biggs, who brought immense joy to her life.

Willie Mae had a gift for bringing laughter and light into every room. She especially had a way of making her daughter laugh like no one else could, a bond and joy that will always be treasured.

Those who knew Willie Mae will remember her for her warm heart, her steady faith, and the way she made everyone feel welcome. Whether through music, family gatherings, or quiet moments of encouragement, she had a special way of bringing people together.

A time to celebrate her life will be held on Thursday at International Baptist Church of Arlington, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. and the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. She will be laid to rest at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Fort Worth, Texas.

Though she will be deeply missed, her family and friends take comfort in knowing her love, faith, laughter, and joyful spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.