J. Sandifer

J.T. Sandifer, 90, of Mexia, passed away quietly after a short bout with pancreatic cancer at his home on Thursday, March 10, 2016. J.T. was a lifetime resident of Limestone County, attending Groesbeck High School. He was drafted during WW II and assigned to the Army in 1943, to serve in the Pacific Theatre. He was stationed first in New Guinea and later in the Philippines, around Manila. His duties included the 236th AAA Search Light Battalion and a member of the Military Police, which frequently involved transporting and guarding Japanese POW’s. Honorably discharged, in 1946, at the rank of Corporal, he returned to Limestone County to resume civilian life. After returning to Limestone County, he met and married Violet Gardner in 1947. They built a small house on Shiloh Rd., outside of Mexia, where they raised their five children. During the last 30 years of his employment, he worked for the Texas Highway Department, retiring in 1985. J.T. was a Charter Member of Temple Baptist Church, helping establish it first as a Mission and then as a Church in 1962. Until his death, he served there faithfully in many different positions, including the office of Deacon. J.T. enjoyed hunting and fishing. His passing will leave a great void in the lives of many people. He is survived by his wife of 10 years, Bobbie; son, James Sandifer and wife, Vicki of Mexia, daughter, Kay Cook and husband, Leslie of Axtell, son, Marcus Sandifer and wife, Sandra of Bivins, Texas; stepson, Gene Thomas of Mexia, stepdaughter, Lou Chrisner and husband, Raymond of Mexia. He had 10 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren with two more in waiting. His marriage to Bobbie added another five grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Violet Gardner Sandifer; and sons, Leonard Sandifer and Joseph A. Sandifer. Pallbearers will be Mark Ballard, Donald Berry, Ronnie Thornton, Troy Sandifer, Marcus (Mark) Sandifer and Jason Sandifer Visitation for the family will be Saturday, March 12, from 5pm until 7 pm at Blair Stubbs Funeral Home. Memorial service will be at Temple Baptist Church on Tyler Street in Mexia on Sunday, March 13, at 2:00 pm with private graveside services at Prairie Grove Cemetery as weather allows. Services will be conducted by Rev. Michael Vestal and Rev. Gaylan Henry. In lieu of flowers Memorial Donations may be made to Temple Baptist Church, 719 S. Red River, Mexia, Texas 76667.