Sanford Dorsey Maddox

Sanford D. Maddox was born on October 16, 1942, in Baltimore, Maryland to the late Sanford & Vivian Maddox. In his early years he attended Baltimore Adventist Academy and Wynns Falls Junior High School. Upon graduation from Edmondson High School he attended Oakwood College, now University, in Huntsville, Alabama where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology. After graduating from Oakwood University Sanford ventured West to Portland, Oregon. He enrolled in the University of Portland and began working toward a Master's degree in Business Administration which he received in 1977. While attending Oakwood University he met his future wife, Shirley Webb, a Portland native, and after spending some time getting better acquainted, his affection for her grew and on April 20, 1969 they exchanged wedding vows. Together they raised two children Sanford Todd and Stefanie (Marcel) Brame. Sanford worked for many companies in Portland mainly in Human Resources: United Medical Laboratory, Albina Corporation, NW Regional Education Lab, NERCO, Inc. (a subsidiary of Pacific Power & Light), American State Bank and Sam Brooks & Associates. In 1990 Sanford had an interest in starting his own business and became owner of Powell Valley Iron & Equipment. He was co-founder of MESO (Micro Enterprise Service of Oregon) a non-profit organization that helps support entrepreneurship in minority communities and distressed areas. Sharing his knowledge, insight and wisdom derived from years of experience to help others in business brought him much joy and satisfaction. Sanford Maddox was respected and appreciated by his co-workers, peers and friends. He was not one who sought the limelight but quietly went about doing his work to help others. Many looked to him as a mentor. He enjoyed traveling, especially to the beach and the gorge. Other interests were reading, preaching and pursuing opportunities where he could share lessons gained from his life experiences. Sanford was a man of faith and service. His love for the Lord led him to be active in the church and the community as he served on the boards of Portland Adventist Medical Center for 18 years, the American Red Cross for 10 years and People to People Ministries for nearly 20 years. Sanford also served on the Seventh-day Adventist Executive Committees for the North Pacific Union and Oregon Conference. In the church he was an elder, Sabbath School Superintendent and teacher of adults, youth, juniors and primaries. He enjoyed music and used his voice in the Sharon Church Choir and male quartets. For many years Sanford shared his faith with inmates, leading out in Sabbath services at the Oregon State Prison. Sanford is survived by his wife, Shirley of 53 years, their two children Sanford Todd, Stefanie Brame, his sister Barbara Maddox and goddaughter Karen Foster.

Sanford Dorsey Maddox

October 16, 1942 - March 18, 2023