Daniel L. Stapleford

Daniel L. Stapleford, age 88, of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, passed away on January 26, 2026, at Chester County Hospital in West Chester, PA. Born in Wilmington, DE, he was the son of the late Raymond Stapleford and the late Ruth (Gabke) Stapleford.

He graduated from Philadelphia College of Art.

Dan worked as a commercial artist for most of his life, most notably with The Franklin Mint for many years. He was one of the original founders of the Franklin Mint Credit Union.

His accomplishments as a senior designer of many coins, plates, and other commemorative artistic collections are still cherished today throughout the world.

Dan has won many awards for his art and sculptures through the Franklin Mint, as well as Brandywine River Museum.

His paintings are enjoyed by family and friends.

Throughout his life, Dan was known for his generosity in the giving of his time and simple needs. His love for nature extended through to wildlife. He could be found carrying peanuts, bread, and birdseed in his pockets so he could feed squirrels, ducks, geese, and other wildlife wherever he went. He kept a multitude of plants in his home and tended them with great care. He enjoyed acquiring plant starters and loved giving them to others.

He enjoyed a good Maryland crab feast, which was always a time full of good conversations.

He will be remembered for his quick thinking, sometimes blunt, funny or oblivious responses, but always with a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face. He loved music, enjoyed live concerts, and watching sports games, movies, and the Olympics on tv with family and friends.

He will be missed for his easy-going personality and go with the flow attitude. His humor always surprised you but kept you grinning. He was always there to help with anything he could, whether physical or emotional. He never criticized or judged you. If he had an issue, he would tell you and be done with it. His frugal ways and simple living were refreshing and appreciated. He loved the Lord. He carried his beliefs and faith with him and loved to share why he believed with anyone who cared to listen.

Dan is survived by his children, Lisa Jones (Rich), Penny Sarro (John), Daniel Stapleford Jr. (Kelli), Rebecca Stapleford (James Porter), and James Stapleford; as well as his many grandchildren and great- grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his son, Robert Stapleford who passed at age two; and his brothers, Raymond Stapleford and John Stapleford.

You are invited to visit with Daniel's family and friends from 9:00 to 10:00 AM on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at First Baptist Church of Kennett Square, 415 W. State St., Kennett Square, PA 19348. His funeral service will follow at 10:00 AM. Interment will be held privately.

Contributions in his memory may be made to the following places that meant a great deal to him:

First Baptist Church, 415 West State Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348 online at www.firstbaptistkennettsquare.com

Friends Home of Kennett Square, 147 West State Street, Kennett Square, PA 19348 online at  www.fhkennett.org/donate/  Donations can also be made with a check and mailed. Please write "Donation in honor of Daniel Stapleford" on the memo line. 

Arrangements are by Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100) of Kennett Square, PA. To view his online obituary, please visit www.griecofunerals.com