Douglas W. Duford
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Published in WFSB on August 27, 2025
Douglas W. Duford, 58, passed away on August 22, 2025, in Providence, RI, with his family by his side after a courageous battle with ALS. He was born on September 27, 1966 in Springfield, MA, and grew up in Palmer. He was a beloved son, brother, and friend whose presence brought joy and laughter to all who knew him. His generosity and love for his family and friends will never be forgotten.
Doug leaves behind his devoted mother, Carol (Greenia) Pitts; and his brothers, Ronald Duford & wife Christine of Belchertown, and Jeffery Pitts & wife Jennifer of Monson, his niece Erica Aloisio & her husband Wyatt, nephews Logan Duford and Jerry Duford and many aunts, uncles & cousins. He leaves his faithful 19-yr companion-his dog Sonny-who will be lost without him. He leaves many close friends, including his best friend Brian Costello, Eric Chaves, and Frank Cooke, all of whom will miss him deeply. Doug is also survived by his half-siblings, Paula, Lynn & Jason. He was preceded in death by his father, Bobby Pitts in 2008, and his brother, Gerry Duford in 2022. A graduate of Palmer High School, Douglas furthered his education and earned his Master’s degree with a 4.0 from Charter Oak State College. His passion and advocacy for the behavioral health industry and his caring for others saw him hold numerous positions over the years, starting out at Monson Developmental Center and culminating in his role as Director of Quality Behavioral Health with CODAC in Rhode Island. Known as the life of the party, Doug had a vibrant personality that drew people to him. He was an avid tennis player who enjoyed watching movies, exploring new places with family and friends, and savoring delicious meals. His fondness for Maine, cosmos, and espresso martinis reflected his zest for life and love for sharing experiences with those around him.
The family would especially like to thank Mary & Don Baker, Patrick Myers, Yannick, Tom & Janice Costello, Rebecca, Mark, Kristen, Jen and the CNA’s at Hope Hospice and his team of physicians and folks at CCALS as well as those at ALS United of Rhode Island. We cannot name you all, but our sincere gratitude goes out to all of you for your love and care given to Doug.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, from 10 AM to 1 PM at the Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home, followed by a service at 1:30 PM at the Second Congregational Church in Palmer. Burial will take place privately at the family’s convenience.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Doug’s memory to Compassionate Care ALS by visiting www.ccals.org.