A Compassionate Champion of Cancer Care Creates an Enduring Legacy
Sanford Forrest Roy
Compassionate. Hardworking. Generous. These are just a few words commonly used when speaking of Sanford Roy. A beloved friend and colleague, Sanford was a remarkable individual who left a profound impact on the lives of everyone who knew him. He unexpectedly left this world too soon on March 12, 2024, but the impact of his love and kindness will be felt for generations to come.
Sanford joined Merrill Lynch in 1998 where he excelled as a wealth management advisor in his 26-year career. He was named to the 2022 and 2023 “Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” list, as well as the “Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” list in 2023 and 2024. Sanford was a leader in the Baton Rouge community for his entire career and was fondly admired for his exceptional level of care and service to his clients, many of whom were lucky enough to also call him a dear friend.
While Sanford enjoyed a very successful career, his greatest accomplishment was his family. Sanford was merely 12 years old when he met his future wife, Jan. Alongside his best friend and soulmate, they raised two beautiful children together, Ashley and Forrest. Sanford was a proud and exceptional father who never missed a school or sporting event. His children’s fondest memories are the times they spent outside with their dad—climbing oak trees, playing catch in the front yard and riding bikes to the creek—and of course, embracing his passion for his alma mater and all things LSU football.
As a servant for others, Sanford was a fierce advocate for the advancement of cancer care in our community. He was a proud supporter of Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center where both his mother and mother-in-law received cancer treatment. Recognizing the importance of advancing cancer research, education, prevention and access to care for every person, Sanford established the Jan and Sanford Roy Family Endowed Fund to ensure these programs thrive now and for future generations.
Ashley, Sanford, Jan and Forrest Roy
In honor of his unwavering spirit, Sanford’s family and friends kindly ask others to join them by contributing to the Jan and Sanford Roy Family Endowed Fund through Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Foundation. As a tribute to their dear friend and colleague, donations to the fund will help them reach their goal of $75,000, ultimately unlocking a $25,000 matching gift established through generous donors of the Cancer Center.
Sanford’s steadfast commitment to Mary Bird Perkins as an avid champion and spokesperson were truly impactful, and it is an honor to carry forward his legacy.
"Sanford was generous supporter, dedicated advisor and most importantly, a dear friend. His desire to make a difference was fueled by his faith and family," said Todd Stevens, long-time friend and former CEO of Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. “He understood firsthand that a cancer diagnosis impacts the entire family and was inspired to leave a legacy that would help other families for generations to come.”
Honor Sanford’s Legacy
Join us with a gift to celebrate Sanford's enduring legacy. Together, with your support, the Jan and Sanford Roy Family Endowed Fund will continue Sanford's cancer advocacy, ensuring essential cancer care, groundbreaking research, and comprehensive support programs thrive now and for future generations.