Bernadette Stanford

         Bernadette “Bernie” Stanford, age 79, of Calabash, North Carolina, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, January 28, 2024. She was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on April 23, 1944 to the late George and Rose Loftus. 

         Bernie is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Thomas Stanford, children, Tom Stanford, wife Christine, Maureen Stanford, Julie Zappulla and husband Tommy.  She was a loving Mom-Mom to her grandchildren, Michael Stanford, Colleen Stanford, Thomas Mansfield, Ava Zappulla,  and Matthew Zappulla.  She is also survived by her sister, Roseann Clark and her brother, George Loftus as well as her nieces, nephews and their families.

Bernie graduated from St. Hubert’s High School in 1962.  After graduation, she furthered her education at Misericordia Nursing School.  She dedicated herself to her career caring for others across various disciplines for over 40 years.  

Shortly after graduating nursing school, she met the love of her life Tom at an Irish club.  They have spent the last 57 years, raising their family, spending time with their grandchildren and sharing more than just a few laughs and making endless memories together.

Bernie made lifelong friends everywhere she went through childhood, raising her family in Audubon, PA and while enjoying her retirement in Calabash, NC with Tom.  She was known for her brilliant sense of humor and her contagious, infectious laugh.  In North Carolina, she loved going out to lunch and laughing with the “Ladies of the Round Table” and playing canasta. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. 

Relatives and friends are invited to join them at Jacob F. Ruth Funeral Directors located at 8413 Germantown Avenue in Philadelphia, PA  Saturday, February 3, 2024 at 10:30 am. Funeral Service 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Jude.org