David Stafford

David Stafford, 79, of East Springfield, passed away on Saturday, February 1, 2025.

He was born November 10, 1945, a son to the late William and Virginia (Payne) Stafford. 

David attended Northwestern High School before enlisting in the United States Army, where he proudly served as a member of the 101st Airborne Division, the Screaming Eagles. Following his honorable discharge, he returned home to Springfield and began working at Parker White Metal, now PHB. Over the course of 42 years, he advanced from a laborer to head of purchasing, playing a vital role in keeping operations running smoothly. His dedication and hard work left a lasting impact and he retired with a job well done.

During his time at PHB, he organized an annual golf outing, bringing together over a hundred men and their families to enjoy a day in the sun. David was an avid hunter, he was skilled with a bow and arrow and had a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He was an honorable and generous man, always willing to help those in need. He truly embodied the saying, “He’d give you the shirt off his back.” Outgoing and friendly, he never met a stranger, often sharing meals and coffee with friends. Above all, David was devoted to his family and lived his life with sincerity and kindness.

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his wife, Pamela (Seeley) Stafford, whom he married on July 21, 1967; brothers, Jacky Stafford and William “Butch” Stafford; and son, Frank Ackre.

He will be greatly missed by his family, which includes his sons, William Stafford (Janelle) and Andrew Stafford; daughters, Christine Illig (John) and Alicia Goss (Lester); sister, Ruth Merritt; grandchildren, Colleen Mitchell (Devin), John Illig Jr. (Marinel), Jacob Dixon, Austin Dixon (Emma), and Zachary Stafford; great-grandchildren, Nevaeh, Lane, Lailynn, and Hudson Mitchell, and Elijah Dixon; as well as many nieces and nephews. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Families of the Wounded Fund, Inc., P.O. Box 5327, Midlothian, Virginia 23112-0023.

Friends may call on Friday, February 7, 2025, from 4:00 pm to the time of service at 7:00 pm at the Edder Family Funeral Home, LLC, 309 Main St. E., Girard, PA.  Burial will take place privately. 

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