Saturday , June 19, 2021, Tonda Sanford Butler was called home, to a better place, the promised land.
What a glorious day for her greeted by her late husband, William David Sanford; father, Jesse D Sheppard; mother, Nancy Q Sheppard; her beloved sister, Reba Sheppard; nephew, Joseph L Sheppard; and great-grandchildren, Willa and Dane Osentowski ,in the presence of her Lord and Savior; what a blessed reunion of extended family and friends.
Tonda was born Aug. 14, 1952 and grew up in the Roberdel Community. She worked until retirement in the school cafeteria and absolutely loved her job. The kids made her happy along with the people she worked with. She worked the longest at Richmond Senior High School and loved being a “Raider.”
She was also a caretaker to many. She took care of her mom, dad and sister and met their needs. She would do her best to do anything for anyone in need. If you ever saw her play a piano, let me tell you, she could play so beautifully even though she could not read a note of music. She played in church, home, or where anyone needed her. She was a true gift from above. A thrift store was her store of choice, and she loved shopping them all in any town she went. She clothed many people, found lots of treasures, and donated her time there as well.
After retirement she married her childhood sweetheart, Tommy (Sam) Butler of Roberdel. She gained a son to her family, Samuel Butler. They had good times traveling, going to church activities, and enjoying each other’s company.
The visitation will be Tuesday, June 22, 2021 at Sweet Haven Church, 234 Midway Road, Rockingham, from 6-8 p.m.
The funeral will be at Sweet Haven Church, Wednesday, June 23, 2021, at 2 p.m. with Pastor Kane McKenzie and Pastor Mitchell Roller officiating.
Burial will follow at Richmond Memorial Park, Rockingham.
Tonda Sanford Butler is survived by her husband, Tommy Butler of the home; son, Samuel Butler; daughters, Robin S. Chavis (Chris), and Kimberly S. Greene (Johnathan); brothers, Johnny Sheppard (Dianne) and Nelson Sheppard; grandchildren, William Houston Sanford (Hannah), Kaki Osentowski (Michael), Brayden Sanford (Lanie) and Bailey Chavis.; great-grandchild, Emma Grace Sanford; extended great grandchildren, Michelle Osentowski, Moe Osentowski, Hunter Osentowski,and Aiden Osentowski; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.
To know Tonda, was to love Tonda. She loved life, having fun at whatever was being done, and giving people a hard time (jokingly of course). She loved her family and grandchildren. Her nickname she was so proud to be was Nina. May our beautiful memories of her life last forever.
Memorials may be made to Richmond County Hospice, 1119 Hwy. 1, N., Rockingham, NC 28379.
“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such Sacrifices God is pleased.” – Hebrews 13:16
Harrington Funeral Home & Crematory is serving Tonda’s Family.
