Jean Stanford, age 85, of Valley City, ND, died Wednesday, June 4 ^th at Mercy Hospital in Valley City.  A public graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, June 19 ^th at Memory Gardens Cemetery.

Jean Clara Grindler, the daughter of Oscar and Bertha (Carl) Grindler, was born November 14, 1934 in Valley City.  Clara grew up and attended school in Valley City.  On December 30, 1955 she married Gordon Stanford in Valley City.  The couple then moved to South Carolina while Gordon was in the Army.  The couple lived in South Carolina for two years before returning to Valley City where they farmed together until 1992 when Gordon passed away.  Jean continued to live on the farm for many years.  She enjoyed gardening, her beautiful flowers and fishing.  Jean also enjoyed painting and helping people with their homes.  Jean's favorite pastime was taking care of her grandchildren, baking and sharing a special treat with visitors.

Jean is survived by her two children, Scott (Kay) Stanford, Valley City, ND and Jeff (Rona) Stanford, Mandan, ND; four grandsons, Jason Thornton, James (Janet) Thornton, Jarin (Gina) Thornton and Justin Thornton; nine great-grandchildren.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Gordon, one sister Stella Grindler and one brother Arthur Grindler.