Gerald "Jerry" Sanford

Jerry succumbed to his illness after a courageous battle with a long-term disease related to his service at the site of the attack on the World Trade Center, on September 11, 2001.

Born on June 12, 1938, in Staten Island, New York, he was the first-born son of Mary Virginia Callahan and Perry Sanford. Jerry was a proud graduate of Ralph R. Mc Kee High School, class of 1955. Regarding his life-long work ethic, Jerry reported that he started working at age eleven, at LaTourette Golf Course where his Uncle Paul Spinetta was the golf Professional. He lived a life of service, courage, and unwavering commitment to protecting others. After graduating high school at the age of 17, Jerry enlisted the Navy. He would go on to serve for four years, assigned to the USS Vigil. Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, Jerry began a brief career on Wall Street. This would end in 1965, when Jerry was called to join the New York City Police Department. Following his training, he was assigned to Manhattan’s 7th Precinct, on the Lower East Side. Although he held a lifelong respect for the NYPD, Jerry knew police work was not for him.

In June of 1968, Jerry was called to join New York’s Fire Department, properly known as the FDNY. This would begin a lifelong love affair with the fire service that would last until his final alarm, on the 3rd of March, 2025. Jerry’s first assignment was 23 Truck, in Harlem. These were “the war years” in the FDNY, where Jerry forged friendships that he would value throughout his career, and beyond. Some years later, in an effort to be closer to his wife Barbara and young sons Glenn and David, Jerry transferred to Ladder 131 in Red Hook, Brooklyn. Stints as a Chief’s Aide, would eventually lead him to FDNY Headquarters. After 20 years of working in various capacities in firehouses, Jerry was asked to join the Press Office, where his savvy and experience would prove invaluable. He was promoted to Acting Lieutenant of the FDNY Press Corp. Jerry was often seen on New York TV channels reporting about fires and emergencies throughout the five boroughs. This was a role which he revitalized with a return to New York in the aftermath of 9/11, spending several months at Ground Zero.

A move to Naples, Florida in 2000, with his second wife Maria, brought Jerry out of a brief retirement to join the North Collier County Rescue and Fire Department as their Public Information Officer. Whether battling fires, providing aid, or supporting the community, he embodied the true spirit of a hero always answering the call with bravery and selflessness. Jerry found a special joy in inspiring the next generation of fire fighters and dedicated the last chapter of his life to remembering all those whose lives were lost on 9/11. He established the Freedom Memorial in Naples and even wrote his own autobiography in the wake of 9/11, with his book, It Started with a Helmet, that he co-authored with his companion, Chris Griffith.

Jerry embraced sobriety over 40 years ago, dedicating much of his life to helping others who suffered with addiction. As a mentor, he guided countless individuals through recovery, offering wisdom, compassion, and unwavering support. He led by example, proving that lasting change was possible. Through late-night calls, coffee shop meetings, and heartfelt conversations, he encouraged, celebrated victories, and stood by those struggling. His legacy is not just his own sobriety but the many lives he touched along the way.

Beyond the uniform, Jerry was a loving family man, known for his kindness, strength, and infectious sense of humor. He found joy in living life to its fullest, always making time for those he loved. His boundless energy and compassionate spirit led him to devote his time to causes and organizations too numerous to mention here.

Jerry is survived by his son David (Tom & Ken), companion Chris, stepchildren Jean (Mike), Laura (Nick), Paul (Kelly), Dianne (Steve), and his siblings Rita Barchitta (Brother in-law Paul) and Ken (sister in-law Pam) as well as his dog Dillon, numerous grandchildren, extended family, friends and colleagues who joined Jerry in nobly serving their Southwest Florida community.

He was preceded in death by first wife Barbara, second wife Maria, son Glenn, and sister Gail Griffo.

A visitation for Jerry will be held Wednesday, March 12, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Thursday, March 13, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Hodges Funeral Home at Naples Memorial Gardens, 525 111th Ave N, Naples, FL 34108. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, March 14, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 625 111th Ave N, Naples, FL 34108. Burial will take place with military honors immediately following in Naples Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Freedom Memorial Foundation of Naples, Florida Inc. 6017 Pine Ridge Suite 249 Naples, Florida 34119-3956 in Jerry’s honor.

Though he may be gone, Jerry’s legacy of courage, kindness, and sacrifice will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Rest easy, brother—the tour is over. Well done Jerry, you’re “goin home”.