David Elliott Hartford

SMITHFIELD – David Elliott Hartford, 86, died on Jan. 7, 2023, at Woodlands Memory Care in East Madison, where he had been a resident for about 15 months. David lived almost his entire life in Smithfield.

David was born March 27, 1936, in Lewiston, son of Arnold Hartford and Orilla (Ayotte) Hartford Jenks (both deceased). David was raised by his paternal grandparents, Luther and Mabel Hartford (deceased) on the family farm in Smithfield. David graduated from Skowhegan High School in 1954.

He married Priscilla Smith on April 30, 1955. The couple had five children that they raised on the farm in Smithfield.

In the early years, David and Priscilla farmed, ran an ice cream business for a short time, and managed a hen house. David also worked in shoe factories. He went to work full-time for Scott Paper in 1966. He spent the next 25 years working for Scott and eventually, SAPPI. Upon retiring, David and Priscilla wintered in Fairhope, Alabama, where David did consulting with Kimberly-Clark, as well as doing various other jobs. After a few years, they returned to living in Smithfield year-round.

David and Priscilla were both longtime members of Fairview Grange. David served as Master for several years. He oversaw the building of the new Grange Hall after the old hall burned down in 1986. David and Priscilla became 7th degree members of National Grange in 1999.

David was a 32nd degree Mason. He was an active member of Lebanon Lodge in Norridgewock. He was also a member of Kora Shrine. He enjoyed several years of driving with the Kora Karts.

David was a member of Smithfield Baptist Church.

Priscilla passed away in 2013. Their daughter, Dawn, died in 2006.

David is survived by his children: Dale (Robin) Hartford of Smithfield; Debra (Michael) Libby of Bonita Springs, Florida; Dwayne Hartford of Phoenix, Arizona; and Darren (Tina) Hartford of Daniel Island, South Carolina; as well as ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held in late March.

David’s family wishes to thank the staff at Woodlands Memory Care in East Madison, especially Jeanie, Mary, and Monica, and the staff of Androscoggin County Hospice, especially Melissa and Nicole, for their kindness, care, and compassion for David in his final months.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan ME 04976.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Smithfield Baptist Church, Fairview Grange in Smithfield, Lebanon Lodge in Norridgewock, Androscoggin County Hospice, or any charity of your choosing.