NEW BEDFORD — Philip F. Danforth, age 87 years, of New Bedford, died October 9, 2016 at St. Luke's Hospital after a period of declining health. He was the husband of Phyllis Day Danforth and lived in this community many years. Born in Lawrence, he was son of the late Philip Danforth Sr. and Thelma Proctor Danforth.
A graduate of Bowdoin College with a degree in Economics, he was awarded the James Bowdoin Prize in Economics at graduation. Philip also was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and graduated from Brown University School of Banking, and for many years was employed at the former N.B. Institution for Savings Bank.
Philip was a veteran of the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict and a proud member of the Army Field Band as a trombone player. He was active with numerous local musical organizations playing in concerts and parades and was a member of the Musicians Union and the International Trombone Association.
He was a volunteer at local Market Ministries and the Greater New Bedford Interchurch Council and attended the Congregatrional Church of Dartmouth.
In addition to his wife Phyllis, he is survived by his sister-in-law Carolyn Chase, three nieces and three nephews.
A graveside service will take place at a later date in Edgewood Cemetery in Nashua N.H. Arrangements are with the Wilson Chapel, 479 County St., New Bedford, MA.
www.wilsonchapel.net