Mineral Wells Area News

Ricky Dale Stanford 4/27/1959 – 1/25/2025

Ricky “Rick” Dale Stanford, 65, of Mineral Wells, Texas courageously finished his earthly race at home with his daughters by his side on January 25, 2025.

He was born in Amarillo, Texas on April 27, 1959 to Vaughn Dale Stanford and Doris Nell Stanford both of Weatherford, TX. He graduated from Sudan High School in 1978 having competed in both football and track for the Sudan Hornets. He made varsity in the first year and was All-District. On April 18, 1980, he eloped and married the love of his life, Ginger, and celebrated two months later with a double wedding alongside his cousin, Steve Richards and sister-in-law Billie Jean Richards on June 14, 1980. In 1981, he enlisted into the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Bragg in Fayetteville, North Carolina. He was nicknamed the “Human Ghost” by his superior officers because of his quiet demeanor and ability to remain unseen. Within the first two years of service, he was promoted to Sargeant. During late 1983, he received the “Army Commendation Medal” for his military professionalism, tactical proficiency, and dogged determination in the Grenada Operation. He was later featured in Eagle Magazine for this honorable distinction. Additionally, he was encouraged at least twice to apply for Delta Force Special Forces Detachment; however, he chose to raise his young, growing family. He was honorably discharged in 1985 with several medals for his service.

Rick was preceded in death by his father Vaughn Stanford, mother Doris Stanford, sister Betty Sandifer, brother Jerry Stanford, sister Theresa Stanford, beloved cousin/brother-in-law Steve Richards, father-in-law Gary Stevens and wife of 41 years, Ginger Stanford.

He is survived by his daughters Brooke Stanford and Ashley Surber, wife of William Surber whom Rick considered a son, grandsons Ezra and Asher Surber, granddaughters Cedar, Atlee, and Valor Surber, all of Mineral Wells, TX, brother Reydon and wife Sharla Stanford of Muleshoe, TX, sister-in-law Barbara Stanford of Weatherford, TX, mother-in-law Doris Stevens, sister-in-law Billie Jean Richards, brother-in-law Robert and wife Carrie Tyner, all of Mineral Wells, TX, nephew Stephen Witherspoon, niece Pam Witherspoon, and niece Tonya Stanford all of Weatherford, TX, and countless beloved nephews, nieces, great nephews and great nieces.

A memorial service will be held in honor of Rick on Saturday, February 8th at 2:00 p.m. at Well of Life Church, 2514 US-180, Mineral Wells, TX 76067. Guests are encouraged to wear cowboy attire to represent Rick’s personality. Additionally, if you would like to write a memory, story of Rick, or words of encouragement in advance, there will be a box available.