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Service Set For Sanford Anderson, Norwalk's 1st African-American Fire Chief

NORWALK, Conn. — Funeral services have been scheduled for Sanford W. Anderson, Norwalk's first African-American fire chief. He died Tuesday, Sept. 26, surrounded by his family. He was 95. 

Sanford W. Anderson

Sanford W. Anderson

Photo Credit: Contributed

A Norwalk native, Anderson was born on July 4, 1922, to Rosa Collins and James Mullen. 

Anderson served the fire departments in of Norwalk and Greenwich during his career. 

He served honorably in the U.S. Navy and was affiliated with numerous civic organizations throughout Norwalk. "Sanford spent his life nurturing and training others to become productive citizens," his obituary said. 

Mayor Harry W. Rilling ordered flags to fly at half-staff in Anderson's honor.

He is survived by his wife, Josephine Fulcher-Anderson of Norwalk; three children; Michele Mason Blijden (Manuel), Rosemeri Anderson and Richard A. Fulcher; eight grandchildren, sister; Audrey Thagard; one niece, two daughters-in-law, Patrice Fulcher and Geraldine Anderson; and many other relatives and friends. 

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two sons, Don Anderson and Kevin Anderson; and his stepfather Eddie Collins. 

Visitation will be held Monday, Oct. 2, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Bethel AME Church, 19 Academy St., Norwalk. A service of celebration will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 3, at 11 a.m. at Bethel AME Church, with the Rev. Dr. Richard Wesley Clarke officiating. 

Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery. Services are entrusted to Graves Medley Funeral Services Inc.

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