Joseph M. Sankey

Joseph M. Sankey, 97, a lifelong resident of Mansfield, passed away surrounded by his loving family, in the comfort of his home, on Thursday August 4, 2011. He was the beloved husband of Althea A. (Troesch) Sankey, to whom he was wed on September 17, 1949. Born in Somerset, MA on May 7, 1914, he was a son of the late Joseph and Lumina Mae (King) Sankey. Joe grew up and was educated in Mansfield. He was a 1933 graduate of Mansfield High School where he was a star athlete, lettering in football and baseball. During WWII, Joe proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was stationed in Germany, and was honorably discharged on May 5, 1946 with the rank of Staff Sergeant. Prior to retiring, Mr. Sankey was employed for over 25 years as a cost accountant at the Foxboro Co. in Foxboro and was a member of the Foxboro Co. 25 year club. He had formerly worked as a police officer for the Town of Mansfield and at the former Mansfield Bleachery. Joe was a member of the Mansfield Grid Iron Club Hall of Fame. He loved spending time with his family and grandchildren and along with his family, had formerly attended the Mansfield Congregational Church. In addition to his beloved wife of nearly 62 years, he is survived by his devoted children: Jeffrey M. Sankey of North Easton, Susan L. Bailey of Palmer and Todd A. Sankey of Mansfield. The brother of Thelma Franey of Mansfield and the late Albert Sankey and Mildred Dupree, he is also survived by his cherished grandchildren; Katelyn and Kristen Sankey, Megan, Daniel, Jackson and Sarah Bailey, Kevin and Hannah Sankey and Catherine Coutu, as well as several nieces and nephews. Funeral services, to which relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend, will be held on Monday August 8th at 10:00 A.M. at the Sherman & Jackson Funeral Home, 55 North Main St., Mansfield. Burial with military honors will follow in the Spring Brook Cemetery, Mansfield. Visiting hours will be held on Sunday August 7th from 4-7 P.M. at the Sherman & Jackson Funeral Home. For additional information please visit www.shermanjackson.com.