Arthur "Sonny" Haynes

Arthur “Sonny” Haynes, a lifelong Stamford resident, died Tuesday, September 23 at The Villa At Stamford. Born the son of the late William and Elzena Glover Haynes on February 5, 1929, he was 96. Sonny was the last surviving sibling of the 14 children born to William and Elzena Haynes. Sonny was predeceased by his former wife Margo, his son David and daughter Lesa.

Sonny attended Stamford public schools. After high school Sonny served honorably in the U.S. Army and returned to Stamford to begin his long and storied career.

Sonny was well known and respected throughout Stamford by his many police friends as well as residents for his involvement in affordable housing and in the community. He was an early member and Chairman of the Stamford Urban Redevelopment Commission, which created more affordable housing for Stamford residents. He went on to manage the newly built 360 apartment unit high rise St. John’s Towers that identified and symbolized the Stamford skyline for decades. Sonny helped many Stamford residents secure housing there.

Outside of Stamford he became a favorite of then Connecticut Governor Ella Grasso for his effective no nonsense approach to property management of public housing and was tasked by the Governor to “clean-up” a Bridgeport housing development which he did. Governor Grasso was known to accept calls from Sonny whenever he called.

After retirement Sonny served as a very personable and engaging school crossing guard in Stamford and Darien Connecticut and was well loved by all the children and parents.

Also in retirement Sonny's garage was a friendly gathering place for family, friends and neighbors where the bar and refrigerator were always stocked with beverages for all.

Sonny leaves to mourn his one and only loving daughter, Margie and son-in-law Ron Lanier; a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, friends and neighbors.

The family will receive friends on Friday, October 3rd from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Leo P. Gallagher & Son Funeral Home, 2900 Summer Street, Stamford. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 4th at 10 a.m., officiated by Rev. Winton Hill. Burial will follow at Woodland Cemetery.