Everett Stafford

Everett Stafford, Jr., 93, of Danville, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 2, 2026, on his back porch. He was born in Casey County, Kentucky to the late Everett, Sr. and Lilly Rouse Stafford. He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 72 years, Mildred “Evona” Stafford. 

Everett, “Pops”, "Uncle Junior", “Dad”, and “Pa”—was not only a gifted craftsman of his trade, but a craftsman of something far greater: a life marked by deep integrity, steadfast faith, and unwavering conviction rooted in his love for Jesus Christ.

His craft was simple, yet profoundly purposeful. As the longtime owner and operator of Stafford’s Body Shop, Everett devoted himself to honest work, providing faithfully for his family and serving his community and church with a quiet and simple excellence. He believed in doing things the right way, never cutting corners, and never living beyond his means. He often said, “You can’t outgive God,” and he lived those words with open hands and a generous heart. It was always that simple for him.

Everett’s life was one of service; service to many. He served as a deacon at Gethsemane Baptist Church and Hedgeville Baptist Church. His faith was not only something he professed—it was something he practiced daily; in every decision, every relationship, and every act of kindness.

He loved deeply and well. For 72 years, he cherished and honored his wife with a steady, enduring love that stood as a testament to commitment and devotion. He poured that same love into his children, grandchildren, extended family, and friends, leaving a legacy that will continue to ripple through generations.

Outside of work and family, Everett found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved restoring old cars, fishing for crappie, and riding his Harley-Davidson—each hobby reflecting his patient, steady nature and appreciation for craftsmanship. And while there came a time that he retired from the cars... and when he sold the bike... and when even stopped going to the ponds... he NEVER took his eyes off Jesus.

More than anything, Everett would want to be remembered for his unshakable faith in the Lord and his deep love for his family. The echo of his character is most evident in the lives of those who knew him best. Those shaped by the example he set... of humility, generosity, steadfastness, and enduring faith.

Everett lived a life of simplicity, purpose, and profound impact. His legacy is not only in what he built with his hands, but in what he built into the hearts of others as a master craftsman.

Everett is survived by a son, Kirby Stafford (Melinda) of Danville; a daughter, Paulette Stamper (Jake) of Harrodsburg; one grandchild, Scott Stafford (Cortney) of Frankfort;  two great-grandchildren, Sophie and Millie Moon Stafford; a brother, Lonnie Stafford of Lexington and a sister, Violet Calvert of Lexington. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Evona; and sisters, Elieen Bertram, Kathleen Coffman and Bonnie Land.  

Funeral services will be 12:00 PM on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at Hedgeville Baptist Church with Bro. Travis Farris and Bro. Jonathan Grizzell officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00am-12:00pm on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at the church. A private family burial will follow in Bellevue Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are  preferred to Shelby’s Way, 845 Contract Street Lexington, KY 40505–www.shelbysway.com, an organization near and dear to Everett.