Lester Tyrone Stafford (known by most as Tyrone), passed away peacefully Monday August 26, 2024 in Ridge Manor, FL. Lester has been chronically ill for some time with COPD, Congestive Heart Failure, and other related illnesses.

Born December 5, 1948 in Brooksville, FL to Mona Marie (McClain) & Gordon V Stafford, Lester lived a full life. He was married to his wife Dorothy Lee Stafford Oct 12, 1979 until she passed Feb 14, 2007. Lester is survived by his 2 children, Mona Marie Stafford & Tyrone Joseph (TJ) Stafford, his step-children: Brice, Trisha, & Tracy as well as 10 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

Despite his medical issues, he did not let that keep him from living life to the fullest by spending time with family & friends, traveling when he was able, browsing flea markets, farmer's markets, & yard sales, and even visiting our local restaurants to see friends. Some jokingly called him 'the mayor of Dade City' because no matter where he went, he was recognized by someone and would easily strike up a conversation.

When Lester was younger, he had joined the US Navy where he was a Marine Mechanic aboard the USS Newport News during Vietnam. When he was discharged, he joined his brothers on the shrimp/fishing boats. Later in life he continued to keep himself busy with various jobs such as: tow truck driver/owner, mechanic, lumber delivery driver, etc. He was a man of many trades.

Lester was known and loved by many, including neighbors who called him family. Though he will be greatly missed, we have faith we will see him again someday. Until then, we will cherish the memories in each of our hearts. We trust he is in the loving hands of God and that he is at peace, resting with Dorothy.

A time of visitation will take place on Friday, September 13, 2024 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Hodges Family Funeral Home in Dade City, Florida. The funeral service will follow at 11:30 a.m. The committal service will take place at Florida National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m.