Donald Clayton Sanford

Donald Clayton Sanford was born on July 3, 1944. The son of Clifford B. and Emma (Barrows) Sanford. He enjoyed growing up in Burrillville where he was able to walk to the fishing pond, ride his bike, tend to his chickens, and generally enjoy all the activities afforded a young boy growing up in the country. At the ripe old age of 14 he got his first job setting up pins in the local bowling alley and was never without a job until he retired from Cadence Manufacturing in 2022.

Don spent his teenage years in Esmond and graduated from North Providence High School. He served as an apprentice toolmaker and eventually became a Master Toolmaker and Lead Toolmaker for Monocraft. He also worked as a toolmaker for Monet and Swarovski Jewelry manufacturing companies. Don was a member of the IAM and participated in contract negotiations between the manufacturers and the union workers. Don served honorably in the Army National Guard as well as in the reserves.

In 1967 Donald married Dorothy (Cotoia). They built a house in Scituate where together they raised two sons, David C. Sanford and Douglas C. (Merari) Sanford of Dayville, CT. Don also leaves behind four grandsons Cole, Dylan, Hunter and Sergio Sanford (the lights of his life).

Don has enjoyed coaching his young sons in little league, fishing, watching sports, good dinners out and traveling. More than anything else, he has immensely enjoyed the closeness and adult friendships he has developed with his sons, daughter-in-law, grandsons, and several special nephews and nieces.

Don will be deeply missed by all of us.

His funeral will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 9:45 a.m. from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph’s Church, 144 Danielson Pike, North Scituate at 11 a.m. Burial will be at St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. Visiting hours are Thursday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.