Maurice C. "Vandy" Vanderford
Nov 5, 1919 - Dec 20, 2020

On December 30, 2020. Vandy Vanderford, loving father, World War II Navy veteran, and valued builder of his community, passed peacefully at the age of 101.

Vandy was born on November 5, 1919 in Nauvoo, AL to John Arthur and Allie Era Vanderford (Byars). He attended Jones County High School and Junior College in Ellisville, MS, where he earned the nickname "Racehorse Vandy", winning numerous medals in the 100- and 220- yard dashes and anchoring the mile relay. He enlisted in the Navy in 1942 and upon his return from the war, he married his sweetheart Margarett P. Gandy on July 17, 1947. They began their life together in Tulsa, OK to raise their son, James Rex.

During his time as a "Seabee" in the Naval 5th Construction Battalion, Vandy worked aboard the USS Lurine. He played a role in rebuilding Pearl Harbor, then was based on the Philippine Islands to construct posts during the U.S. strategy to retake the Philippines. He operated specialized equipment to cut and clear jungle to create air strips and a network of roads. He used his construction skills to build sawmills, fuel tanks, docks, barracks, radio towers, and camps, often under sniper fire and bombing raids.

As a skilled carpenter with Southwest Construction Company in Tulsa, Vandy was dedicated to building new homes for WWII GI's returning from the war. Throughout his career, he was proud to use his carpentry skills to help build the schools and the businesses of the Tulsa economy from the late 1940s and into the 70s. He was active in our community as a Little League and youth basketball coach. Even after his retirement, Vandy continued to volunteer his time and carpentry skills to help maintain his church and his community.

During his long and productive lifetime in the most eventful century of the world's history, Vandy demonstrated his dedication to the welfare of others and has earned the respect and affection of his family and neighbors, making many life-long friendships. He was known for his animated storytelling, his proud display of Disston handsaws, and his kind and compassionate spirit.

Vandy is now in heaven with his red-headed angel, Margarett. He is survived by his son James Rex.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Vandy's name to the American Red Cross, please contact Regina Ross at 918-283-3367.

A funeral service will be held virtually on Thursday, Jan 7 at 10:00 am. The livestream will be available just before service time on his tribute wall .
Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233