Leona T. (Deady) Sanford

ASHBY: Leona T. (Deady) Sanford, 83, of Ashby, formerly of Malden, died Thursday, October 27, 2022 surrounded by her loving family at her home. Mrs. Sanford was born in Stoneham, June 15, 1939, a daughter of Edward and Genevieve (Waters) Deady and resided many years in Malden before moving to Ashby 40 years ago. She leaves her husband of 59 years, Robert F. Sanford; two sons, Ronald S. Sanford of Epping, NH, Robert F. Sanford Jr., of Chestnut Hill; three daughters, Robyn B. Wadman of Westford, Leona D. Boudreau and Laurel T. Sanford both of Ashburnham; her sister, Lois Deady-Schutlz of Chesapeake, VA; nine grandchildren and one great grandchild. She was the sister of the late Joan C. Bennett of Washington, GA and Priscilla “Rusty” Olsen of Tampa, FL. Mrs. Sanford was an active contributor to many community efforts in the area including Lifetime Membership in the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary, Lifetime Member of the Fitchburg Rod & Gun Club, member of the Ashby American Legion Auxiliary, former member and chairperson of the Town of Ashby Board of Selectmen. She was a member of the Hope Chorus in Townsend, Townsend Senior Citizens and the Townsend Quazy Quilters. When she resided in Malden, Mrs. Sanford was equally busy in community affairs such as serving as a member and past president of the Malden Parent Teachers Association as well as the founder of the Helping Hands program which promoted safe havens for school aged children. For a period of time she worked in the Mayor’s office in the City of Malden and was frequently recognized with the Woman of the Month Award for her contributions to the city. Mrs. Sanford was an accomplished artist and woodcarver as well as an amazing singer who studied voice at the Massachusetts Conservatory of Music in Boston. Her funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:30 AM Wednesday, November 2, 2022 at St. John’s Church, 1 School Street, Townsend. Mrs. Sanford’s family will receive relatives and friends at calling hours 4-7 PM Tuesday, November 1, 2022 at the Anderson Funeral Home, 250 Main Street (Rte. 119) Townsend center. For additional information or to leave an online condolence, please visit their website at www.andersonfuneral.com

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Leona T. (Deady) Sanford

June 15, 1939 - October 27, 2022