Alma was born to the late Robbie Mann and William Johnson on March 4, 1933. She was raised by Esther and Jaddie Pearson.  Preceding her in death were 5 sisters, 1 brother, and husband Garnett Sanford.

Alma married the late Garnett Sanford, Sr. on November 2, 1952.  Five children came from their union.  Alma enjoyed fishing, bowling, bingo and playing cards.  She was a caregiver to many in Orlando and worked with the Orlando Housing Authority for many years.  She retired to travel and take care of her grandchildren.

She accepted Christ into her life at an early age, then upon relocating to Carrollton, Texas five years ago she joined into membership at Christian Chapel CME where Dr. Vanessee J. Burns is the lead pastor.  She enjoyed all of her church activities, but was especially fond of her participation in the " Second Half Senior Ministry". They played bingo, sang, did arts and crafts, and just had a great time fellowshipping with one another.  She loved it when Thursday came because she knew she would be with her buddies.

She leave to Praise God: Daughters Cherlyn Lacy of Coppell, Texas, Roberta Williams of Orlando, Florida, Karen Sanford of Carrollton, Texas, Diedra (Tony) Harris of Apopka, Florida, Kim Mitchell of Orlando, Florida.  Sons: Garnett Sanford of Rowlett, Texas, Cornell (Gladys) Smith of Little Elm, Texas.  20 grandchildren, 32 greatgrandchildren, 4 great great grandchild and a host of nieces and nephews.  Dear and best friends Mary Cottle, Barbara Biggers, Gloria Denmark, Ruth Dariso and Maxwell Thurston.

Loving and caring extended family:  The Council Family, Jean Evans, Laura Perry and the CCTOF family.

She Is Gone

You can shed tears that she is gone
Or you can smile because she has lived
You can close your eyes and pray that she will come back
Or you can open your eyes and see all that she has left
Your heart can be empty because you can't see her
Or you can be full of the love that you shared
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday
Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday
You can remember her and only that she is gone
Or you can cherish her memory and let it live on
You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back
Or you can do what she would want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on