Laurette A. (Johnson) Sanford, 81, died Friday June 23rd at home. She was born in Beverly, MA, daughter of the late Arthur and Ida (D'Amour) Johnson. Laurette grew up in Beverly and attended St. Mary's High School and graduated from Salem State College with a bachelor's degree in Education.

Laurette was the first in her family to attend college.  A passionate educator, she spent her early career teaching elementary school in the East Hartford and West Springfield areas.  While raising their three children, she worked many years in support of the family business.  In her later career, she returned to her love of education and taught in Western Massachusetts, including North Star Academy Charter School, as well as regional senior centers.  Throughout her days, Laurette was fond of reading, cooking and traveling.

She is survived by her husband of 57 years Myron (Ron) Sanford; her daughter Jennifer Baldasaro of Plainville, MA; her son Ben Sanford of Chapel Hill, NC, his wife Jennifer and their two children Nathaniel and Josie; her son Adam Sanford of Minneapolis, MN and his wife Stephanie Schroeder; her brother Dick Johnson of Pembroke, NH; and her sister Carolyn Rapisarda of Leesburg, FL.  She was predeceased by her sister June McSwiney of Beverly, MA.

A memorial service will be held by the family at a later date.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the Sanford family would appreciate donations to UNICEF USA.

The O'Brien Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. For more information or to make online condolences please go to obrienfamilyfh.com.