Albert Matthew Sanford

Mr. Albert Matthew Sanford, age 83, passed away at his home on Monday, October 12, 2026. Al was born on April 22, 1943, in Providence, Rhode Island. He was the son of Albert C. Sanford and Helen Regan Sanford.

Al earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Providence College in 1966. After completing his education, he pursued a variety of business ventures. His career experiences included working for International Silver, residential construction, operating Lees Wharf with his best friend, Stephen Golenski, and owning and operating ADL Affordable Trash Pick-Up with his wife. Of all his experiences, Al was most proud of his lobster fishing boats. His favorite was an offshore lobster boat named F/V Freedom, which fished out of Newport, Rhode Island.

Al met his wife, Deborah, in Westport, Massachusetts in 1993. The two later moved to Florida and married. There, Al formed Palm Bay Pushboat Company. He and his friend Stephen built the pushboat Hubert Bays, named in honor of their dear friend, who also participated in the project. In 2003, they welcomed their daughter, Laurel, into their family. In 2005, Al and his family moved to Hayesville, North Carolina, which was his home for the remainder of his life.

Al had a passion for playing golf throughout much of his life. While living in Florida, he served as president of the South Brevard Golf Association. He made many good friends through his favorite sport. He also loved football and watched games regularly, always rooting for the New England Patriots.

Al’s family remembers him as a caring and loving husband and father. He took pride in providing for his family and worked hard to give them a good life. He was proud to watch his daughter graduate from college and grateful to see her marry and begin a new chapter in her life. His presence and involvement in these milestones reflected the love and dedication he had for his family. He will be deeply missed by many.

Al was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Helen Sanford, and his brother, James. He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Deborah Sanford; his daughter, Laurel Phillips, and her husband, Kolby Phillips; his brothers, John Sanford (Claire) and Paul Sanford (Kathy); his sister, Nancy Donahue (Patrick); his sister-in-law, Andrea Sanford; and many nieces and nephews.

At the family’s request, no service will be held at this time.