Sandra S. Lewis

Born in Weymouth, MA on May 15, 1935, Sandie was raised and educated in Quincy, MA until, as a teenager, she moved with her parents James F. and Barbara "Dolly" C. Shaw to East Orleans. A graduate of Orleans High School, Sandie met and kept many lifelong friends, including teachers, from her time spent there.

As a young mother with four children close in age, Sandie dedicated her life to making happy memories for her family. Many traditions and rituals were celebrated to weave a strong sense of security and belonging even in hectic times. Sandie was the Mom everyone should grow up with. She had a kind, special way of connecting with people both young and old and making them feel at ease with her.

A creative and talented spirit, Sandie was a phenomenal baker. Her cookie preparation at Christmas time was an elaborate labor of love requiring countless hours of her time to execute year after year. The tins containing her special cookies were eagerly awaited by the many who were recipients of her thoughtfulness. Sandie was the Mom who sent to school with each of her children, a beautifully hand decorated gingerbread boy for every child in their class. Sandie took a cake decorating class. Her creativity with this skill turned into a small business at which she prepared many elaborate birthday, wedding and celebratory cakes for clients, friends and family.

Sandie had a beautiful singing voice and enjoyed music of all kinds. She was an active member of the Highlanders musical and theatrical group during their existence and particularly enjoyed being cast in the role of Agnes Gooch in their production of Mame done in the late 70's. Together with her late husband George A. Lewis, Jr., Sandie was also a familiar face at the Monomoy Theater in Chatham each summer. She grew to know many of the college students and faculty who produced the shows each season.

Many people in Orleans knew Sandie as their mail lady. Over the years, she got to know and care about the people on her route. She knew their names and took the time to be personal with a kind word and a smile, being especially compassionate to those who seemed to be lonely.

Later in life, Sandie developed an interest in making quilts. She learned to do all the steps by hand and spent many hours designing, cutting and sewing beautiful works of art both for her own use and to give to those she loved. She made baby quilts, full size bed quilts, wall hangings, Christmas tree skirts and angels for the top of the tree. She made table runners and pillows. Of course her beloved and devoted cat Mia had several quilts made just for her!

Sandie loved her home on Great Oak Road and after fifty years couldn't imagine living anywhere else. She was fond of walking down to Nauset Beach and of visiting with friends and neighbors she met as they spent time walking their dogs. A lifelong animal lover, Sandie was only too happy to help her neighbors by sitting for their pets.

As Sandie's memory faded and she became less able to live on her own, some very special people came into her life. She joined the program at the Council on Aging in Orleans and spent many days being lovingly cared for by the wonderful people there. When Sandie went to live at the Royal in Harwich, the people there went above and beyond with their love and support for her. Finally, when Sandie came to reside at Liberty Commons and ultimately pass away under the care of their hospice program she was cared for by people truly dedicated to the comfort and dignity of others. On behalf of our beloved family member, Sandie’s relatives want to thank all those who cared for and loved her during her illness.

Sandie leaves behind her son Wayne P. (Robin) Taylor of Winnetka, CA, daughter Wendy A. (Jon) Tulloch of Brewster, MA and daughter Jennifer L. Austin of McDonald, PA. Her son James R. Taylor predeceased her in 2009. Known lovingly as "Mema" by granddaughter Lindsey A. Tulloch of Hamilton Heights, NY and grandson Alexander J. Tulloch of Brewster, MA and as "Grandma Sandie" by Jessica Risinger of CA. Sandie's laughter, sweet spirit, sense of humor, and beautiful singing will always be remembered by those who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Animal Rescue League of Boston, 3981 Main St. Brewster, MA 02631.

Please join us in celebrating our loved one's life by visiting our memorial @ www.nickersonfunerals.com where we invite you to share your thoughts and memories with Sandie's family.