Melidy-Sanford, Helen, D., 87, of Evergreen Drive, died peacefully on January 15, 2015 surrounded by her loving family. She was the wife of the late William H. Sanford and Frederick M. Melidy. She lived in Johnston for the past year.

Born in Warren, a daughter of the late Manuel and Rosa (Damaso) Almedia, she lived in East Providence for 27 years.

Helen enjoyed listening to country western music and dancing.

She is survived by five sons; William H. Sanford, Ronald E. Sanford, Steven A. Sanford, James Sanford and Edward Sanford; a daughter, Beverly A. Lyons; a brother, Edward Almedia; a sister, Rose Rossi; many grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was the mother of the late Mary Arlan, Fred Melidy Jr., Francis and John Sanford and sister of the late Manuel and Frank Almedia.

Her funeral will be held on Thursday January 22, 2015 from the W. RAYMOND WATSON FUNERAL HOME, 350 Willett Avenue, Riverside at 8:30 a.m. with a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Bartholomew Church, Laurel Hill Avenue, Providence at 10 a.m. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday 6-9 p.m. Burial will be held in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston.