John "Sean" Stafford, age 88, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2026, following a lengthy illness. He was born on December 6, 1937, in Tipperary, Ireland. Sean left Ireland in his early 20’s in search of opportunity in the Boston area. There, on his very first night in America, he met the love of his life, Bridie Connelly, who became his wife. Bridie was also a recent immigrant from Ireland. They made their home in Newton, where they raised three children. Sean experienced his greatest joy at family gatherings where he would lovingly dote on his six grandchildren (Sean, Pierce, Erin, Drew, Aidan and Leah). Those who knew him appreciated his sense of humor and storytelling. He had a strong faith which carried him through his life. Sean is survived by his sister, Mae, and brothers Ned, Tony, Ray and Norman. He was predeceased by his mother Mary and father George, and sister, Charlotte, all of Ireland. He leaves a legacy of love in his three children and their spouses, John and Patricia Stafford of Natick, Colleen and Peter Dierker of Westwood and Robert and Marie Stafford of Westford, MA. 

Visitation is offered on Tuesday, October 27th from to 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Henry J. Burke & Sons Funeral Home at 56 Washington St., Wellesley Hills, MA and services held on the same day at 11:00 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church at 9 Glen Rd., Wellesley, MA. Interment in St. Mary's Cemetery, Needham. The family requests any memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association  320 Nevada Street, Suite 201, Newton, MA. 02460.