Donald P. Bansfield Jr.

Donald P. Bansfield Jr., 75, of New Durham, NH, formerly of Lynn, MA, passed away peacefully just after sunrise on February 16 following a courageous battle with cancer. He lived a full and meaningful life defined by service, integrity, and unwavering devotion to his family.

Born in Lynn, Massachusetts on May 24, 1950, he was the son of Donald P. Bansfield Sr. and Marion (Moore) Bansfield. Immediately after high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Army National Guard and the Air Force Reserve. Don began his career with the Electric Company, working on poles and underground lines before rising into management at the telephone company. He retired from NYNEX after nearly 20 years. He earned a certificate in Information Technology from Boston University and built a second career in pharmaceutical IT at Pfizer and Biogen, where he worked for nearly 16 years.

Don was an avid reader and a lifelong music fanatic, able to finish a book in a single day and outmatch anyone at music trivia across any genre but nothing compared to the Rolling Stones, his absolute favorite. Above all, he was a family man. Just one month shy of celebrating 50 years of marriage, he was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Sheryl (Jenkins) Bansfield. He was a proud and steady father to Shannon Bansfield, Erinn Gilmore, and Loren Malilay. As a dedicated “girl dad,” he raised three strong daughters with guidance, protection, and unwavering support. He took pride in providing for his family, but even greater pride in simply being present.

His greatest joy was being “PopPop” to his seven grandchildren: William (Billy) and Sean Stevens; Jack, Riley, and Kate Gilmore; and Nora and Connor Malilay. He was deeply involved in their lives through vacations, games and events, careful listening, thoughtful advice, and celebrating every milestone. They knew him as steady, proud, and always there.

He is also survived by his sons-in-law, Jeffrey Gilmore and Jovi Malilay, whom he considered not only family but close friends. Throughout his life, he formed lasting friendships and touched the lives of neighbors, coworkers, and extended family. He is also survived by his brother George (Shari) Bansfield; sister Debra (Sandy) Caswell; brothers-in-law Lee Jenkins and Kenneth (Millie) Jenkins; and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.

During his cancer journey, his wish was to take one more family trip to Disney World, a place woven into the fabric of their lives after more than 30 visits together. Just months ago, surrounded by his entire family, he shared a heartfelt speech filled with gratitude, love, and pride. At his request, cremation will take place. A celebration of Don’s life will live on daily through treasured memories and enduring love in the family he loved so fiercely, including his sweet dog Maizie, who brought him unconditional love and joy each day. When you hear a Rolling Stones song, think of him and smile.