Gifford, Deanna

With much sadness, we share that Deanna Gifford passed away on February 21, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Although we are sad, we also feel joy because we all had the honor and good fortune of having her in our lives. Deanna was born February 22, 1945, in Hartford and grew up in Manchester and East Hartford, Connecticut. Deanna was a graduate of Penney High School in East Hartford. She moved to Broad Brook, Connecticut where she raised her sons, met lifelong friends, enjoyed her retirement, and lived with her husband, Jim. She was loved dearly by all her family, including her predeceased parents, her sister Lorelle, nephew Kenny, several cousins, late husband, David, and her beloved dog, Ace. Deanna leaves behind her husband, James Gifford. Jim and Deanna, lifelong friends, united in marriage on June 16, 2018. Their time together was far too short, but they made the most of every moment. In addition to her husband Jim, Deanna leaves behind her son Kevin Pedersen and daughter-inlaw Leah Pedersen, son Eric Pedersen and his girlfriend, Suzanne Midura, bonus daughter & son and great friends Susan and Leslie Caron, and Laurie Galarneau and husband Richard. Grandchildren William and Alicia, Colin and Emma, Scott and Joann, Julie and Tim, Connor, Erin and her husband, Carl. Great grandchildren Matthew, Michael and Hunter, Gabrielle, Jessica, Angel and Conner, and Elliotte. Nieces Debbie and Michelle, nephew Richard. In addition, Deanna had many special nieces and nephews from her extended and blended family. Also left behind, many lifelong and dear friends including Ellen, Sandy, Valerie, Barbara and Peggy. The family would like to thank the Critical Care Unit staff at Manchester Memorial Hospital for their care and attention to Deanna during her illness. Please join the family on Saturday, March 2nd at Holmes-watkins Funeral Home, 400 Main St, Manchester, Connecticut. Calling hours are from 11 am - 1 pm, with a service to follow immediately afterwards. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Diabetes Association Ct/western MA Office. As we celebrate Deanna's life, please remember her rule to always have cake on your birthday!