Former Decatur Mayor Don Stanford dead at 82

Don Stanford, who served one term as mayor of Decatur, has died, the city announced Friday. He was 82.

A cause of death was not listed.

“Mayor Stanford served our community with distinction from 2008 to 2012, leading us through challenging times with his steady hand and unwavering commitment to the well-being of our city,” read a statement posted to the city’s Facebook page Friday evening.

Stanford was a lifelong resident of Decatur. He graduated from Decatur High School and Athens State University in Athens.

Before becoming mayor of Alabama’s tenth-largest city, Stanford was postmaster in Danville and Trinity.

“Mayor Stanford’s legacy will be one of community spirit and leadership,” the city’s statement read, adding that Stanford “was a passionate advocate for youth sports and his guidance during the 2008 recession helped our city weather the storm.”

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Stanford family during this difficult time,” the city said.

Decatur City Hall will fly the flag at half-staff in Stanford’s honor.