Richard Michael Lanford
Michael Lanford, 69, of Simpsonville, husband of Vicki McWhite Lanford, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Thursday, March 4, 2021.
Born in Spartanburg, SC, he was the son of the late Charles Henry and Gladys Jackson Lanford. Mr. Lanford was a long-time member of First Baptist Church Simpsonville. He served our country and retired from the U.S. Air Force. He worked for 20 years at BMW Manufacturing.
In addition to his wife, Vicki, he is survived by his children, Kevin Michael Lanford and his wife, Hollie, of Boiling Springs, and Dana Lanford Wood, also of Boiling Springs; his grandchildren, Duke Michael Lanford, Tyson Blake Wood, and Austin Drew Wood; a special niece and nephew, Kendall and Austin Helms; his many grand-neighbors and his beloved dog and companion, Zoie.
A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, March 8, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. in the Worship Center of First Baptist Church Simpsonville with Rev. Brian Owens officiating.
The family will receive friends following the service.
Interment will be on Tuesday, March 9, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. in Graceland East Memorial Park with Full Military Honors.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to: White Horse Missions, PO Box 38, Simpsonville, SC 29681.
We are so saddened to read of Mike’s passing. He was a warrior to the end. May God bless Vicki and the rest of the family and give them peace in the knowledge that Mike is now well and in the presence of the Lord.
My thoughts and prayers for Michael and his wonderful wife Vicki. Michael was a fine person and soldier. He will be missed by all that knew him. Darwin Simpson
Vicki, Dana, Kevin and families,
Mike fought a courageous fight and now he has received his Great reward when he entered into the gates of heaven Thursday night! We grieve the loss of a husband, father, grandfather and friend , but we grieve with Hope. We will be re-United with our loved ones who have died in Christ. That gives us hope, strength and courage to continue our journey on this earth. May God wrap each of you in His loving arms in the days ahead! Love and prayers,
We learned to know Mike when he was the greeter at the door at First Baptist SImpsonville. He always said “Good Morning. I have already pushed the elevator button for you”. He was always so pleasant and personable. We have kept up with him while at Duke through your neighbors (the Koysza’s) who are in our SS class. He fought a good fight. Now, he is in Heaven with no more sickness or pain. Our sympathy and prayers to Vickie and her family. MIke will be missed by all who knew him.
Dear Vicki, Kevin, Dana and family.
I know your pain. Thankfully God knows your hearts and knew Mike.
Praying for you all.
The Family is in my thoughts and prayers. Mike was my Company Commander in the Spartanburg National Guard Unit. He was always a positive Soldier and a trusted friend. We will miss him.
Offering our condolences, in the passing of Mr. Lanford. Praying for the family, in this sad time.
Kirby & Thelma Ballew
Vicki and family, we are so sorry for your loss. We are thinking and praying for you all. Mike will be missed but is no longer suffering. God has called him home. We love you.
Should a man be known by his family- his friends- his service to country? If so, one can only say that this man had a wonderful life, has a loving family, and a forever grateful nation for his service. Dana and family- may you have fond memories to make you smile in the days to come.
May God Bless Mike and his family.
A true gentleman and a fellow soldier! Prayers for each of you.
Jim Wheeler
Greenwood, SC
Vicki My comfort for your loss he must have been a good person because you were always there for him He is Walking with God and talking with Jesus and at peace
My deepest sympathy to family and friends. Went to Dorman with Mike and he was a great guy. RIP
Vicki,
Sarah and I just learned of Mike’s passing. He was a true friend and fellow Airman. I enjoyed the years serving with him in the 53rd Aerial Port Squadron.
God Bless
Sarah and Marty Winkler
Raeford, NC
Vicki, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Mike was a sweet guy, even though he drove an old Chevy! God speed! Lovingly, John and Margaret Woodward
Vickie, so sorry for your loss. Mike was always headstrong and had a gentle soul at the same time. I enjoyed having Mike as a boss at BMW. You and your family will be in my prayers.
To The Family I pray peace over you that only Jesus can provide. Our family loved this sweet guy and I know Dana and Kevin your dad was so proud of you both. He will be missed by many.
I am so sorry to hear of Mikes passing, we were neighbors in the Park Hills community . Mike was always like a big brother to me as we grew up even though It had been many years since we had talked god now has a genuine caring husband, farther, soldier. May god bless his family and we will see each other one day.