Ernest H. Gifford, 96, of Dartmouth died Sunday November 6, 2005 unexpectedly at home. He was the husband of Sophia M. (Baron) Gifford.
Born and raised in Fall River, the son of the late James and Rose (Vardney) Gifford, he lived in New Bedford before moving to Dartmouth in 1968.
He was a communicant of St. Mary's Church in South Dartmouth.
Mr. Gifford and his late brother James were co-founders of Gifford Automotive Electronics which later became Gifford Marine Company now located in South Dartmouth.
An automobile enthusiast, he was a member of the Sports Car Club of America. He was also a member of the National Rifle Association.
Mr. Gifford served in the U.S. Coast Guard for two years during the 1920's aboard a Buoy-tender and Lightship.
Survivors include his wife; six sons, Albert Gifford of Poughkeepsie, NY, James Gifford of Chaplin, CT, Ernest Gifford, Jr. of Westport, Paul Gifford of Swansea, and David Gifford and Edwin Gifford, both of Dartmouth; 19 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren.
He was the grandfather of the late Gregory Gifford, and brother of the late Norman Gifford, James Gifford, and Lillian Croghan.
His Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday November 9, 2005 at 10 AM in the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford. Burial will be in Beech Grove Cemetery, Westport. Visiting hours will be on Wednesday morning from 9-10 AM prior to the service.