Sanford Crayton, 58, of Blacklick, Ohio, peacefully passed away on May 26, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Tachikawa, Japan, to Gerald and Yukiko Crayton while his father was serving in the United States Air Force. The family later returned to Columbus, Ohio. Sanford graduated from South High School and went on to serve his country in the United States Army. During his military service, he was stationed abroad in Bamberg, Germany, with the 1st Battalion, 52nd Infantry, where he served as a team leader, and stateside at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, with the 101st Airborne Division, 2nd Battalion, 187th Infantry, where he served as a squad leader. While stationed at Fort Campbell, Sanford successfully completed the Primary Leadership Development Course, was promoted to the rank of Sergeant, and was later honorably discharged from the military.

Sanford began his career with the Franklin County Sheriff's Office in 1994 in the Corrections Division. In 2000, he joined the Special Investigations Unit, where he led undercover narcotics investigations targeting local drug traffickers and also investigated illegal gambling, homicide, and human trafficking. In 2004, he became a Task Force Officer with the Drug Enforcement Administration, where he investigated and helped dismantle large-scale drug trafficking organizations in the United States and abroad. He also participated in undercover murder-for-hire investigations, reflecting his courage and deep commitment to protecting others. Sanford's exceptional leadership, undercover work, and investigative expertise earned him numerous commendations and helped bring thousands of local and international drug traffickers to justice. In February 2014, he returned to the Special Investigations Unit and was promoted to Sergeant of the Franklin County Drug Task Force. A respected leader, Sanford fostered strong camaraderie within the unit and mentored many members, helping them strengthen their undercover and investigative skills. His unit also worked closely with Special Agent Janey Crayton of the Drug Enforcement Administration in efforts that led to the prosecution of local and international drug traffickers through the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Ohio. Sanford and the members of the Franklin County Drug Task Force were featured in the Showtime documentary series The Trade, which explored the illicit drug trade and the law enforcement efforts to combat it.

In 2019, Sanford was diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer. Even so, he continued working throughout his illness with remarkable strength and determination. He remained steadfast in his faith in Jesus Christ and unwavering in hope. In the summer of 2021, Sanford and his wife, Janey Crayton, retired and were blessed to travel the world together, celebrating life and making cherished memories. His leadership, kindness, discipline, and sense of humor defined him as a devoted husband and loving father.

Sanford leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Janey Crayton; his devoted son, Charles Crayton; his beloved daughter, Brandi Burks; and a host of cherished family members and dear friends. He will be remembered with abiding love, profound respect, and heartfelt gratitude by all who were blessed to know him.

"Let your faith be your shield in times of doubt."

— Sanford Crayton, March 23, 2026

A visitation in honor of Sanford Crayton will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Spring Hills Baptist Church, 1820 Newark-Granville Road, Granville, Ohio 43023, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Funeral services will immediately follow from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Upon the conclusion of the service, military honors and a ceremonial tribute presented by the Franklin County Sheriff's Office will be held at the church.

To send condolences or share memories, please visit the Pfeifer-Woodyard Funeral Home at www.Pfeifer-Woodyard.com.

Pfeifer Woodyard Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.