Marilyn Melanie “Krajewski” Sanford
Born in Groton, Connecticut, on October 9, 1942Passed on October 4, 2025 in Rockledge, Florida
Marilyn Melanie Sanford was an extraordinary woman whose life radiated grace, resilience, and boundless love. Born in Groton, Connecticut, on October 9, 1942, she passed peacefully on October 4, 2025, leaving behind a legacy etched in the hearts of all who knew her.
On December 23, 1967, Marilyn wed her beloved Larry Sanford, beginning a partnership filled with adventure, laughter, and unwavering devotion.
Marilyn’s professional journey was as dynamic as her spirit. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Hartford before earning her MBA from Rivier University. Her career spanned high-tech HR roles at Digital, Apollo, HP, and the family business, CSI, where she was admired as both a leader and a mentor. Marilyn’s passion for education led her to teach MBA and undergraduate courses at Rivier University, Hessar College, and the University of Phoenix, often dedicating her evenings to her students. Later, she reinvented herself as a tax professional, founding Ames Hill Tax Services in Tewksbury, Massachusetts—a practice built on integrity, trust, and a deep connection to her community. Even after relocating to Florida, Marilyn continued to serve families and small businesses with unwavering dedication, working tirelessly through April 2025.
Yet Marilyn’s résumé only hints at the depth of her spirit. She was a force of nature—resilient, generous, endlessly curious, and blessed with an insatiable sense of humor. Marilyn delighted in making others laugh, but perhaps most of all, she delighted in making herself laugh. Her silly jokes and infectious laughter could brighten any room, and she never missed an opportunity to share a witty remark or a playful story. She found joy in the everyday and taught those around her to do the same.
Marilyn and Larry traveled the world together before welcoming their daughter, Kimberly. From Hong Kong to Baton Rouge, they embraced life with wonder and adventure. Once Kimberly arrived, Marilyn’s journeys shifted to skating rinks, tennis courts, and music rooms. She never missed a recital, competition, or match—cheering from the sidelines, braving early morning practices, and even embracing Kimberly’s switch to hockey in college, smiling through the chill of the rink well into her daughter’s 30s. Marilyn and Larry’s adventures continued at home, from cross-country skiing to Sunday morning “Egg McSanford’s,” coffee, and the Sunday newspaper. Their home was always filled with conversation, laughter, and love.
A devoted wife to Larry, a fiercely loving mother to Kimberly Anne “Sanford” Dooley, and a doting grandmother to Emma Grace and Isabella Faith, Marilyn’s love extended far beyond her family—to friends, students, clients, and even strangers. She gave selflessly, always placing others first. Her compassion was quiet but powerful, and her strength carried those around her.
After being diagnosed with ALS in 2008, Marilyn became a passionate advocate, joining the Board of Directors of the Massachusetts Chapter of ALS and speaking at biotech and pharmaceutical companies to educate and inspire. She faced her diagnosis with grace and grit, never allowing the disease to define her.
Marilyn’s love for animals was profound. She supported countless animal charities and believed deeply in the dignity of every creature. Her home was filled with warmth, laughter, and the gentle presence of her beloved pets and grand-pups. It brings comfort to know she was welcomed to peace by her soul dog Germaine, her big lug Gerry, and her grand pup Bruin—tails wagging, hearts full.
Marilyn is survived by her husband, Larry Sanford; her daughter, Kimberly Anne “Sanford” Dooley; son-in-law, Robert Matthew Dooley; and granddaughters, Emma Grace and Isabella Faith. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Barbara “Sanford” Fitzpatrick and brother-in-law Larry Fitzpatrick; her beloved godchildren Jennifer “Lewis” Hershman, Jillian Lewis, Douglas Kelliher Jr., Daniel Marshall, and Michael Marshall; and many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews who carry her spirit forward.
She is now reunited with her mother, Melanie “Miecznikowski” Krajewski; her father, Edward Krajewski; her sister, Diane “Krajewski” Lewis; brother-in-law, George Lewis; sister-in-laws, Annette “Sanford” Marshall and Janet “Sanford” Kelliher; and many other loved ones who crossed her path over the years.
Marilyn’s legacy lives on in every act of kindness, every moment of courage, every burst of laughter, and every silly joke that brings a smile. She taught those around her how to live, how to love, how to laugh, and how to keep going. Her light—and her laughter—continue to guide them, always.
A celebration of Marilyn’s life will be planned at a later date. Details to follow as arrangements are finalized.
