Age 63, Stanley, Va.
Patrick Bernard Sandford, a dedicated firefighter, beloved brother, father, and the life of every party, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at the age of 63.
Born on May 12, 1962, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Patrick was raised in Stillwater, New Jersey. He moved to Charleston, South Carolina, and proudly dedicated his professional life to serving the community as a Captain of the Charleston Fire Department until his retirement. During his service, Patrick responded to the tragic Super Sofa fire in 2007, an event that deeply impacted firefighters nationwide. Following that tragedy, Patrick became a strong advocate for firefighter mental health, working with the New Jersey FMBA to promote awareness and provide support for those struggling in silence. Patrick was a dedicated advocate for his fellow firefighters, and his passion, dedication and leadership earned him the distinguished 2020 Humanitarian Award from the New Jersey Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association (NJ FMBA).
To know Patrick was to love him. He was hands down the funniest person you would ever meet, possessing a quick wit and a contagious laugh that instantly brightened any room. Patrick’s passion was food and fellowship. He believed in the importance of family and cherished the simple but profound joy of sharing a meal, a tradition he affectionately called getting “all our feet under the same table.”
Patrick’s warm spirit and generous nature ensured he was deeply loved by all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, service and devotion.
He is survived by his beloved children, Zachary, Garrett and Sydney; his brothers, Stephen and Christopher; his favorite sister, Mary, and her husband, Robert Pierro; his sister-in-law, Rose Sandford; his devoted companion, Susan Hume; along with many loving nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
He is predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Dolores Sandford; his sister, Joanna; his brothers, Joseph, Timothy and Daniel; and his sister-in-law, Jean.
A Celebration of Life will be scheduled and announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Patrick’s honor to support two causes close to his heart: Stanley Volunteer Fire Department in Stanley, Virginia, or the Where Angels Play Foundation in Oakhurst, New Jersey.
Arrangements are being handled by The Bradley Funeral Home in Luray, Va.
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