John T. Stafford

In Loving Memory of John T. Stafford John T. Stafford, known as “Stoney” to his closest friends, passed peacefully on February 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. John had an immeasurable impact on the Sarasota community and on his many friends throughout the country, but his greatest impact was on his family – his wife Barbara, his children David and Shannon, and his grandchildren Xoli, Luz, and Tommy. They carry forward his legacy by embodying the integrity, perseverance, and generosity that guided his life. John was raised on a farm in Cuba, New York, by Rockwell and Mary Stafford, but he always had bigger dreams. After serving in the Air Force and attending college, he began his career in banking, married Barbara Shine, and moved to Sarasota, Florida, where together they built a life and raised a family. Despite very humble beginnings, he quickly moved up in the banking industry because of his strong work ethic, financial acumen, and enduring relationships. He spent more than 35 years in banking, serving as President, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman of the Board. One of his proudest professional accomplishments was founding his own community bank, Suncoast Bank of Sarasota, with the support and trust of friends and family who believed in him and his vision. John also served on the Board of Directors for FCCI Mutual Insurance Company for 20 years and as Chairman of the Board for 12 years. John worked hard to support his family but also found time to give back, instilling important values in his children and grandchildren. He led not just through words but by example. He served as Chairman, President, and Founding Director of the Suncoast Foundation for Handicapped Children and as Chairman of the Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix Festival for more than 20 years, raising millions of dollars for children with disabilities in Sarasota County. John helped establish The Argus Foundation more than 40 years ago and remained a dedicated board member for many years, lending his leadership to important community issues. He was appointed by Former Governor Rick Scott to the board of the Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority and served as Commissioner, Vice Chairman, and Chairman of the Board. John was a beloved Shriner for more than 50 years and was Chairman of the Shriners Hospitals of North America Investment Board. He was a member of the Royal Order of Jesters, served as Royal Director, and was honored with the distinction of 33rd Degree Mason in recognition of his many years of dedication and service. When John wasn’t working or helping someone in need, you could find him tinkering with his classic cars, riding one of his Harley-Davidson motorcycles, driving his RV to a new destination, or traveling the world with Barbara by his side. But some of his best times were spent with his grandchildren. He treasured his visits to Hawaii to spend time with Xoli and Luz, and he cherished Tommy’s daily visits for a game of checkers or cards – usually with some financial advice from Papa thrown in. You could often catch him slipping the grandkids some cash when Grandma wasn’t looking, though she always knew and would say, “John, your eyes are dancing!” The twinkle in his eyes reflected the joy he found in the people he loved. John is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife and greatest supporter Barbara Stafford; his children, David (Amy) Stafford and Shannon Stafford Burkhardt; his grandchildren, Xoli Stafford, Luz Stafford, and Tommy Burkhardt; and his siblings, Linda McCutcheon, Lois Whitson, Dennis Stafford, and Cindy Stafford. He is now reunited in Heaven with his parents, Rockwell and Mary Stafford; his sister, Sharon Peale; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Bernard and Jeanne Shine; and his son-in-law, Vincent L. Burkhardt. John’s family and friends will celebrate his life on March 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. with a memorial mass at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, followed by military funeral honors and a masonic service at the Sarasota National Cemetery at 12:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers the family welcomes donations to Shriners Hospitals for Children, Suncoast Charities for Children, or St. Thomas More Catholic Church. John lived a life defined by love, generosity, leadership, and service. Although he will be profoundly missed, his spirit lives on through the example he set and the many lives he touched.

Tributes

John T. Stafford

February 20, 2026