Sally Elise Danforth
Born on September 23, 1958 in Orlando, FloridaPassed on January 17, 2026 in Melbourne, Florida
Sally Elise Danforth, 67 of Melbourne, Florida passed away Saturday, January 17, 2026 surrounded by her family. She was born in Orlando, Florida, moved to Chicago in 2005, but returned home to Florida, settling in Melbourne in 2018.
Sally was born and raised in Orlando. She graduated from Evans High School in 1976 and attended Valencia College. She enjoyed over a 10-year career at Disney World, including as a licensed pilot and engineer of vessels up to 200 tons in the waters of Bay Lake & Seven Seas Lagoon. She remained fast friends with members of the watercraft team throughout the decades.
Later, she decided to follow her adventurous spirit and moved to Chicago where she became a retirement and benefits manager for Hewitt-Aon. However, Sally’s home, heart, family, and old friends were in sunny Florida. Somewhat reluctantly, she said farewell to her beloved Chicago friends (especially Ila, Susan, and Bonnie) and headed home to Florida, continuing to work for Aon from home until retiring in 2023. Her dear cousin and friend, Mary Ellen Tucker located a beautiful home perfectly suited for Sally in Melbourne.
Sally enjoyed traveling, painting, gourmet cooking, and baking. She was a generous woman, giving regularly to her favorite charities such as the Humane Society (SPCA), Doctors without Borders, the Florida Wildlife Hospital in Melbourne and others.
Sally is survived by her brother Kimble Danforth and his wife Carol; her brother Stephen Danforth and his wife Lisa; her cousins Mary Ellen Tucker and Jay Tucker and his wife Tary; as well as several beloved nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her beloved dog Scouty, who has been lovingly adopted by cousin Mary Ellen.
A celebration of Sally’s life will be open to guests from 2 pm – 4 pm on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at 753 Spring Valley Drive, Melbourne, Florida, 32940. Please RSVP via text to Carol Danforth, (407) 335-6379.
A collection of photos of Sally is available; please feel free to add your own memorable photos of Sally:
Photos
In lieu of flowers Sally would have preferred you donate to one of the above mentioned or your own favorite charity:
Brevard Humane Society
Doctors Without Borders
Florida Wildlife Hospital
