Gerald A. “Jerry” Sanford

January 4, 1936 - November 29, 2021
Gerald A. “Jerry” Sanford

Memorial Gifts & Donations




Gerald A. “Jerry” Sanford, age 85, of Wilmington, passed away on Monday, November 29, 2021, at the Lower Cape Fear LifeCare.

He was born in Ithaca, NY on January 4, 1936, the son of the late Benjamin and the late Esther Bishop Sanford.

Jerry was a Graduate of Tompkins-Cortland Community College, Dryden, NY, where he received his degree in Fire Technology. He worked in Fire service for 26 years serving as Asst. Fire Chief, in Ithaca, NY, and Fire Chief, in Amherst, MA. He was also a Real Estate Broker.

Jerry served his country with honor and distinction as a Sonarman Second Class (SO2), in the United States Navy, aboard the USS Eugene A. Greene.

In later years Jerry volunteered with the New Hanover County Senior Center Home Delivered Meals program.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 40 years, Christine “Chrissy” Chiarmonte; children Linda Lewis and Jason Boice; grandchildren Rebecca, Stephanie, Jacob, Riley, Christian, Madison, Nathan and Grant and numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his favorite friends- his dogs Felicia Rose, Benson Lee, Hoover Blue, and Nathan Jesse.

Together with his parents Jerry was predeceased by nine siblings, daughters Eileen Weldner and Charisse Christine Jones, and grandson Travis.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family on Friday, December 3, 2021, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Wilmington Funeral Chapel. The Celebration of Jerry’s Life will follow where friends and family are encouraged to share their memories. A reception will follow the service at the funeral home.

A rendering of Military Honors will be presented by the United States Navy Honor Guard in recognition of Jerry’s honorable and faithful service to his country.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Gifts sent to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401, in loving memory of Jerry, would be greatly appreciated.

You may share memories and condolences with the family by clicking on the “Post a Condolence” tab below.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S.41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403. 910.791.9099.

Tribute Video


Service

Friday, December 3, 2021
12:00 PM

Wilmington Funeral Chapel - Directions
1535 South 41st Street
Wilmington, NC 28403
910-791-9099

Visitation

Friday, December 3, 2021
11:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Wilmington Funeral Chapel - Directions
1535 South 41st Street
Wilmington, NC 28403
910-791-9099

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  • December 02, 2021
    Bill Redfield-Lyon says:
    Condolences on your loss I worked with Jerry for many years in Ithaca and we went to college together. He was a great firefighter and even a better person. He lead from the front as great leaders do. I learned a lot from him and even though we have been apart for years his trainings and lessons are still used in my daily life. Condolences on you loss and may you have many happy memories to carry you through this time. RIP Jerry. Buzzy

  • December 02, 2021
    Peter and Letty-ann Mudar says:
    We were so sad to hear of the loss of our dear friend Jerry. We and our community will miss him dearly. Our condolences go out to Chrissy and the entire family. We enjoyed his daily visits with his friends to get treats at our front door. I'm sure Waylon was there at the Rainbow Bridge to welcome him home.

  • December 02, 2021
    John and Valarie Shivar says:
    We are so heartbroken over the loss of Jerry for you and your family. He will be missed by so many.

  • December 03, 2021
    Barbara Whitman says:
    JS you will be missed so much. My heart is so sad for your family. I remember so many laughs during our real estate years. You were my best friend and always so kind and funny. You had a sense of humor like no other.

  • December 03, 2021
    Yonica and Paul Rodio and Family says:
    We have wonderful memories of Jerry during your time in Durham. His humor and kind spirit were abundant. Never a dull moment with Jerry in the room. We send love, tight hugs, and our sincere condolences to you, Chrissy.