Tina Lynn Blades Sanford, 53

January 15, 1973 – March 22, 2026

If love alone could have kept her here, she would have lived forever—but now, Heaven holds what our hearts will always long for.

Tina Lynn Blades Sanford, age 53, fought the good fight, finished her course, kept the faith, and received her Heavenly reward on Sunday evening, March 23, 2026, at her home in Tippah County, surrounded by the love and presence of her family and dear friends.

A homegoing service celebrating Tina’s beautiful life will be held at 12 Noon on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at her home church, New Covenant Christian Assembly in Falkner, with Bro. Jamie Basden and Bro. Titus Mathis officiating. Visitation will be from 5 PM until 9 PM on Tuesday evening at the church, and will continue from 10 AM until time of service on Wednesday. Burial will follow in Hatchie Chapel Cemetery in Alcorn County.

Born on January 15, 1973, Tina was the daughter of George Edward Blades and Kay Crum Kilzer. She received her education from Ripley High School, and from an early age, she possessed a heart that naturally drew people to her. On January 14, 1992, she married the love of her life, Richie Dee Sanford. Together, they built a life rooted in love, faith, and family in Tippah County—a life filled with cherished memories and lasting joy.

For twenty-four years, Tina faithfully served as a veterinary assistant at Horton Animal Clinic, where her compassion and gentle spirit were evident to all. She later worked for a time as a team lead with Caterpillar, always bringing that same dedication and strong work ethic wherever she went.

A devoted member of New Covenant Christian Assembly, Tina was as faithful a Christian as one could be. She loved the Lord with all her heart, spending time daily in His Word and leaning on His promises through every season of life. Her faith was not just something she spoke—it was something she lived, quietly and consistently, in the way she loved others.

Tina found joy in the simple, meaningful things of life. Whether tending to her garden, canning what she had grown with her own hands, or simply being surrounded by her family, those were the moments she treasured most. Above all, she adored her grandbaby, and when it came to that precious little one, there were no limits to her love—she never could say no, and she wouldn’t have had it any other way.

There are truly not enough words to capture the life of Tina Sanford. Though she never sought attention, she was deeply loved by all who knew her. Her outgoing personality, unwavering faith, and vibrant spirit left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered. Even throughout her courageous battle with cancer, she carried herself with grace—wearing a smile, holding onto hope, and trusting in the Lord every step of the way.

While our hearts are heavy and she will be missed beyond measure, we find peace and comfort in knowing that Tina has been made whole. She is now resting in the arms of her Savior, Jesus Christ, free from pain and full of everlasting joy. And because of her life and her testimony, Heaven feels a little sweeter and a little closer for all of us.

In addition to her loving parents, George Blades (Gladys), and Kay Kilzer (Ricky), and her faithful husband, Richie, those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Nichole Sanford, her granddaughter, McKenzie Sanford, along with a grandson on the way, Colton Sanford, her sister, Tracy Blades, and four brothers, Tony Blades (Wanda), Rick Kilzer (Brooke), Rusty Kilzer, and George Blades, Jr (Lacy), along with a host of nieces, nephews, family, and many many friends.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Marlin and Mary Crum, and Charlie and Grace Blades.

Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories with Tina’s family.

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.

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Visitation

Tuesday
March 24, 2026
5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
New Covenant Christian Assembly Church
550 cr 264
Falkner, MS 38629

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Funeral Service

Wednesday
March 25, 2026
12:00 PM
New Covenant Christian Assembly Church
550 cr 264
Falkner, MS 38629