Mrs. Florence Minnie Hayford

Florence Minnie Hayford, 85, of Pittsfield, died Sunday, November 27, 2016 surrounded by her family at Berkshire Medical Center. Born on December 19, 1930, in Pittsfield, the daughter of the late Lawrence and Julia Hubbard, she was adopted and raised by her late grandparents, Minnie and Ulysses Loynes. On May 20, 1950, she married her high school sweetheart, the love of her life, Donald Miles Hayford. This year they celebrated 66 spirited years of marriage. Florence attended local schools, graduating from Pittsfield High School in 1948. She worked as a telephone operator at New England Telephone company and General Electric Company for many years. After retirement, she and Don drove cross-country in a mobile home enjoying the sights and reconnecting with friends. Together, they ran Whimsey Crafts, a homemade craft business, specializing in artisan dolls, folk art painting, Noah's Arks and children's wooden toys. Never one to truly retire, along with her husband, volunteered for Shakespeare & Company, and worked as drivers for Bedard Brothers. She was an active member of First Baptist Church throughout her life. An avid reader, Florence also enjoyed sewing, handwork, baking, decorating her home, celebrating holidays, singing and dancing, and entertaining family and friends. She also loved the ocean, enjoying much time on the southern coast of Maine. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her four children, A. Donald Hayford (Catherine), of Pittsfield, Charles L. Hayford, of Adams, Ellen H. Atwater, of Pittsfield and Susan L. Sauve (Robert) of Hinsdale; five grandchildren, Miles L. Hayford (Jennifer), Julie Verchot, Katherine Hayford, Donald Hayford, Natalie Hayford and seven beloved great grandchildren. She also leaves her sister, Julie Groat of Peru, sisters-in-law, Pamelia Waterbury and Lois Klouse, as well as many adoring nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her brother, Lawrence Loynes, his wife, her sister-in-law, Barbara, and son-in-law, John H. Atwater. FUNERAL NOTICE- A memorial service for Mrs. Florence M. Hayford will be held Thursday, December 1, 2016 at 1PM at WELLINGTON FUNERAL HOME, with Rev. Sheila Sholes-Ross, pastor of the First Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family. There will be no calling hours. Donations in Florence's memory may be made to the First Baptist Church memorial fund in care of the funeral home, 220 East St., Pittsfield, MA 01201.

Mrs. Florence Minnie Hayford

December 19, 1930 - November 27, 2016