McClentic "Clent" Larby Sanford

McClentic Larby Sanford, “Clent,” 59, of Newport, NC, passed away peacefully holding his daughter, Brooke’s hand, on August 5, 2024, in Newport, NC. 

Born on November 25, 1964, at Cherry Point Hospital, he was a vibrant spirit known for his humor and outgoing nature. Clent's passion for life was evident in his love for cooking, especially his renowned whole hog BBQ, which made him a well-known figure in local BBQ competitions. His enthusiasm was not limited to the culinary arts; he was also an avid sports fan, fervently supporting his favorite football, baseball, and basketball teams, especially Newport Vikings, Newport Little League, and West Carteret High School. 

Beyond the games and grills, Clent cherished time spent shrimping, a hobby that connected him deeply with nature and some of his best friends. He leaves behind a loving family: his mother, Mary Ann Sanford; daughters, Brooke South and her husband Josh, and Cortney Sanford; son, Craig Sanford; sister, Shalla Hemenway and her husband Michael; brother, Cliff Sanford and Janet Decker; granddaughters, Kinley South, Ava Sullivan, and Annie Rogers; best dog friend, Harley and grand dog Hattie. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Clifford Sanford, maternal and paternal grandparents and many, many pet friends throughout the years. There is no doubt there was a welcoming committee of dogs, cats, horses, monkeys, raccoons and more waiting at Heaven’s gates for him. 

Clent's life was enriched by numerous lifelong friends, pig cooking comrades, and shrimping buddies, all of whom will miss his larger-than-life presence. A memorial service honoring Clent’s wonderful life will be held at Noe-Brooks Funeral home on Tuesday, August 13 at 11 am. Feel free to wear your favorite sports team shirt, or your pig cookin’ team shirt to honor Clent’s life. The family will receive friends and loved ones at reception immediately following the service at the Woodman of the World Building in Newport, NC (307 Howard Blvd).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Brooke South, In memory of Clent Sanford, to sponsor young enthusiasts under the age of 18 in the Newport Pig Cookin’ competition, a cause close to Clent’s heart. This initiative reflects his passion for nurturing the next generation of BBQ chefs. Checks can be mailed to Truist Bank, 375 S. Front St, New Bern, NC 28560 or Venmo (@lbsouth), or PayPal (brookesouth09@yahoo.com). Please include In Memory of Clent Sanford in the memo line. Clent's legacy will live on through the many lives he touched with his infectious enthusiasm and generous spirit.

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noebrooks.net.

Arrangements by Noe-Brooks Funeral Home, Morehead City, NC.