Stephen "Drew" Andrew Stanford

Stephen Andrew Stanford was and is a beloved son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend. He entered this world on December 31, 1990, bringing a new year with him, and departed this earth unexpectedly on August 19, 2026.

A brilliant mind and kind soul and spirit of a sasshole…a fierce defender of justice and an ally to many. He was an amazing listener. Musically inclined, a fan of Broadway, showtunes and musicals, and a collector of instruments, a whistle or a hum often accompanied his presence. The family offers their sympathy to the translators and anyone else who was held hostage in a car by his love for musical theatre. Drew enjoyed a plethora of good cuisine; a foodie, if you will. He had an affinity for all kitchen gadgets and a palate refined enough to serve his family broccoli salad aspic for fun.He found his home in Baton Rouge, a place where he thrived and felt safe to become and be himself. His character was reflected in the company he kept and the friends he collected over the years. He spoke often of others and their compassion and consideration while downplaying his own service contributions. He was known to trap you with a YouTube video, displayed properly on the big TV – that’s what they called him in high school. He gave good hugs…such good hugs, but don’t look for anything in that car of his. The way he kept his backpack in elementary followed him into adulthood, and we still loved him for it. Actually…don’t even look AT the car. He was witty and funny, and hardworking, and had an appreciation for dark humor.