Gordon Arlie Sandifer, 87, of Columbia, passed away June 7, 2023, after a brief illness.

Gordon was born in Tylertown, and after graduating high school joined the Navy where he was a cook and a gunner.  During his time in the Navy, Gordon was able to travel the world, seeing Japan, Australia, and the Island Yap where he saw clams the size of Volkswagens.

After leaving the Navy, Gordon returned home and married Marie Reid. He attended Hinds Junior College, earned an Associate's Degree, and began work at General Electric as an appliance technician.  The couple had three children, Todd, Kelley, and Mechelle. Gordon worked for GE for thirty years, retiring at the age of fifty-eight.

Gordon valued education above all else, and one of his proudest accomplishments was that all three of his children graduated from college.  In his free time, Gordon enjoyed following the stock market, dining out at buffets, and talking to anyone within earshot.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Hazel, as well as one brother and two sisters.

He is survived by his wife of over sixty years, Marie Reid Sandifer; his son Todd Sandifer (Joy); his daughter Kelley Lucy (Brent); and his daughter Mechelle Barnes.  Additionally, he is survived by six grandchildren, Vivian Sandifer, Elena Sandifer, Garrison Lucy, Hannah Marie Lucy, Raeleigh Lucy, Arleigh Sandifer, and his sister Doris Ervin.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, June 9, 2023, at Woodlawn Cemetery in Columbia.  Interment will follow.  Dr. Gary Robinson will officiate the services.

Hathorn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Friends may sign an online guest book at www.hathornfuneralhome.com.