Sandra Joyce Gaudio

Sandra was born in Digby to Ashton and Joyce (Comeau) Lewis. At the age of 17, she married the man with whom she would spend the rest of her life, Joseph "Larry" Gaudio, spending 56 years together.

During his military career, Sandra accompanied Larry to many places throughout the country and around the world. While posted in Churchill, Manitoba, they adopted their first child, Diana. Three years later, Sandra gave birth to her son, Patrick. She was a devoted mother who worked hard to give her children every opportunity in life.

While her children were young, Sandra held different positions in the medical field, as caring for others was one of her great passions. Upon Larry's retirement, the family returned home to Digby in order to care for Sandra's parents and later her Uncle George. She was truly exemplary in this role, giving selflessly of herself for many years.

Later in life, Sandra delighted in spending time with her grandchildren. To say that she was an exceptional grandmother would be an understatement, and she always spoke with immense pride of her grandchildren to everyone she met. Visits to Nana's house were wonderful and will be greatly missed.

Sandra was a skilled quilter, crocheter and knitter who constantly had a project on the go. Her favourite time of year was Christmas and she always pulled out all the stops to make it magical for her family.

If you ever had the chance to meet Sandra, you would never forget her. She had a heart of gold, and would often stick up for others, especially for those who were down on their luck. Sandra always said exactly what was on her mind, and it was very often something unexpected and hilarious.

Sandra is survived by her husband Larry, son Patrick (Laura), siblings Danny, Greg (Lee), Larry (Linda), Mark (Louise), and Olive "Sis," by her grandchildren Amanda, Joshawah, Lucy, Michael and Payten, great-grandchild Thunder, as well as many nieces, nephews and in-laws.

She was predeceased by her daughter, Diana, both of her parents, and siblings Ashton Jr., Dale, Fraser, Gary, Joseph "Bud," Mary, Rosalie Ann and Tony.

In keeping with Sandra's wishes, there will be no funeral service. However, a Celebration of Life will follow in the summer.

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff of the Valley Regional Hospital, who gave excellent care and comfort to Sandra during her final days. Donations in Sandra's memory can be made to Liver Canada or the Valley Regional Hospital.