In Memoriam: Red Bank Native, Sanford Auto Body Service Owner, Jimmy Sanford, 81

Red Bank native and former longtime Little Silver resident, Red Bank High School 1960 graduate and Sanford Auto Body Service owner, James “Jimmy” Sanford, more recently of Oceanport, passed away on July 11 at home. He was 81.

Jimmy was born on September 22, 1942 at then Riverview Hospital, Red Bank, to John and Evelyn Sanford.

A graduate of Red Bank High School Class of 1960 graduate, 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 twenties, Jimmy joined the family business, Sanford Auto Body Service, Inc. that his grandfather and father established in 1941. His oldest daughter, Stephanie, later joined the business making it to four generations. Jimmy retired in 2019 bringing to a close a well-respected, family owned Red Bank business.

“Jimmy married his wife, Gail Fenn, on October 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, followed by 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.”
Loved ones of Jimmy Sanford in his obituary

Jimmy is predeceased by his father.

He is survived and dearly missed by: his mother, Evelyn McKee, age 106, of PA; his wife of 52 years, Gail; his beloved daughters, Stephanie Laude, and Kate and son in law Kris Peck, all of Little Silver; his sister, Diane and brother-in-law, Brian Eyes, of PA; 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 will be held on Wednesday, July 17, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Thompson Memorial Home, 310 Broad St, Red Bank. Prayer service will be held on Thursday, July 18, at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be private.

— Edited obituary prepared by family via Thompson Memorial Home