Joan Matthews Sanford

Joan Matthews Sanford, 86, of Buffalo, NY, passed away peacefully on August 4th, after a long and fulfilling life dedicated to serving others. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the countless individuals whose lives were touched by her servant’s heart. Born in Buffalo on May 11th 1939 to George E. and Barbara Matthews, Joan embodied a profound desire to make a difference. She found immense joy and purpose in volunteering with many organizations, including The Junior League, The Kidney Foundation, Westminster Presbyterian Church, and for 74 years in support of the Women and Children’s Hospital of Buffalo. As a 10 year old, Joan hosted her first fundraiser to benefit Children's Hospital. Through the years she held numerous positions, including President of the Women’s Board. Joan was known for greeting customers with a warm smile at the Gift Shop, ordering and stocking the shelves with plush stuffed-animals, and walking to the hospital through snow to cover shifts for her friends who could not travel in from Orchard Park. A co-worker said Joan was “always so patient, level headed and encouraging and has a fun sense of humor!” Another said, “Heaven gained an angel.”

Beyond her volunteer work, Joan had a deep love for outdoor activities, finding solace and beauty in nature. She downhill skied for 80 consecutive winters, and traveled extensively, experiencing new cultures and birdwatching whenever possible. At her home on Gates Circle, dedicated to creating a positive and supportive environment, Joan personally visited and welcomed every new resident. She was a devoted daughter to her parents, sister to Deborah Tillou, spouse to Don Sanford and mother to their son, Bill Sanford (Robin). Joan embraced all her nieces and nephews and always had a fun game in her purse to entertain their children at family events. A memorial service to celebrate Joan's life will be held on September 27th at 11am at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Buffalo. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Joan's honor to the Oishei Children's Hospital of Buffalo Gift Shop. Oishei Children's Gift shop 818 Ellicott St., Buffalo,New York 14203. Joan's legacy of kindness, empathy, and unwavering dedication to others will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be forever remembered for her gentle spirit and the positive impact she had on the lives of so many.