Gloria A. Sanford

Gloria Ann Sanford, 79, of Salem, passed away on Monday, January 5, 2026. Born on October 30, 1946, in Central Falls, RI; she was the daughter of Anastasia and Theodore Brunelle, the last born into a large family, she was the sister to many siblings.

In 1963, she met John and they were blessed with a love that would last a lifetime. The two married in 1964 and raised three children: Christine, John Jr., and Mark. They were fortunate to witness their family grow two additional generations, with six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Gloria knew how to savor life’s little pleasures: a good seafood platter, a show at the theater, the beautiful view from the top of New Hampshire’s mountains, an afternoon shopping trip, or a simple indulgence appreciated without guilt. She reminded those around her that joy can be found in the small things and that life is meant to be enjoyed.

More than anything else, she loved her family. She delighted in time spent at loud family gatherings filled with laughter, shared meals, stories told again and again, and memories made that will be treasured forever. There aren’t enough words to express how much she will be missed. We will miss her voice, her laugh, her stories, and the way she made everything feel a little better just by being there. She was the heart of our family, and life will never feel quite the same without her. She leaves behind a family who will carry her memory with them always and honor her by loving one another the way she taught us to.

Services will be held at the Colchester Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 4:00pm. The family is currently in a period of deep mourning and wishes to spend time together in private reflection. Therefore, there will be no public gathering following the services. We appreciate your understanding, love and prayers during this difficult time.

Colchester Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses

297 Westchester Road

Colchester CT 06415