Paul J. Stanford

Paul J. Stanford, a longtime resident of Malden, passed away on Thursday, June 27, 2024. He was 84.

Born in Somerville on May 17, 1940, Paul was one of five children of the late Edward J. and Mary (Rogers) Stanford.  He grew up in Somerville, and was a proud graduate of Somerville High School, where he excelled on the football field as part of the Charlestown Townies team.

Paul dedicated many years of his life to the aerospace industry as a machinist, finding fulfillment in his work and taking pride in his contributions. On May 15, 1965, he married the love of his life, Veronica McLaughlin, and together they built their lives in Malden. With family and faith at the core of his being, Paul was a devoted member of St. Joseph's Church in Malden, finding solace and community within its walls.

Family was everything to Paul, and he was exceptionally active in the lives of their children. He and Veronica provided special care for their cherished daughter, Melissa, demonstrating their unwavering love and dedication as parents. Every Friday, Paul and his brothers enjoyed bowling and card games together, fostering deep bonds of friendship and kinship. Their family gatherings with aunts and uncles were a highlight of the week, filled with laughter, card games, and a shared sense of togetherness.

In his leisure time, Paul enjoyed working on cars, cheering on the Red Sox and Patriots, and celebrating his Irish heritage with pride. An annual tradition included trips to Hampton Beach and Silver Lake with his family, creating cherished memories that will forever be treasured.

He will be remembered for his kindness, devotion, and unwavering love for his family.

Paul was the beloved husband of the late Veronica A. (McLaughlin) Stanford with whom he shared 59 years of marriage. Devoted father of Paul “PJ” Stanford of FL, Jennifer Valentino and her husband Anthony of Rockville Centre, NY, Jeffrey Stanford and his wife Robbin of Peabody, and the late Melissa Stanford. Loving Brother of the late Eugene Stanford and his late wife Doris, the late Edward Stanford and his late wife Jean, the late Mary Stanford, and the late Carol White and her surviving husband Douglas. Cherished grandfather of Wyatt, Victor, Anthony Paul, Nathan, Ava and Blake. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to gather in honor of Paul during Visiting Hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Tuesday, July 2nd from 4-7pm, and again on Wednesday at 8:45am before leaving in procession to St. Joseph’s Church, 770 Salem St., Malden for his Funeral Mass celebrated at 10am. Private Interment in Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett.

Gifts in Paul’s memory may be made to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at Donate to Dana-Farber and select Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma for the area of need.