Sandra R. Lewis M’96

Sandra R. Lewis, Barre, VT, died August 15, 2024.

Sandra was a resident of Barre for nearly 50 years until she moved to Massachusetts in 2018 to be closer to family. Born and raised in Lynn, MA, she was a graduate of Lynn English High School, Class of 1961. Sandra pursued her passion for science, earning a bachelor’s in chemistry from the University of New Hampshire, graduating summa cum laude and as a member of Phi Beta Kappa, before later earning her Master of Science in Administration degree from Saint Michael’s.

Sandra was a chemist with the Department of Environmental Conservation for the State of Vermont, where she made significant contributions before retiring in 2008. Her commitment to her work was matched by her dedication to her community. A devoted member of the Barre Congregational Church, Sandra sang in the church choir, rang bells in the bell choir, was a member of the finance committee, was an active participant in the Women’s Fellowship, served on the Scholarship Committee, and provided meals to the Good Samaritan Haven.

Her love for music extended beyond the church, as she was also a member and eventually officer of the BarreTones, an a cappella competitive singing group. She especially enjoyed traveling with the group for international competitions. Sandra’s commitment to service was evident in her earlier years as a Girl Scout Leader for Barre’s Troop 444 and as a member of the Vermont Girl Scout Association. She was elected to the Barre City School Board for three terms and served one term as chair. She was a member of Vermont School Board Association, serving for one term as treasurer.

She treasured the camp she and her husband purchased in 1976 on Lake Bomoseen in Hubbardton, VT, where the family spent summer weekends and vacations. In later years Sandra and her sister returned to Ossipee Lake where they had spent many happier summer vacations as children. She especially enjoyed kayaking at sunset.

She cherished the camaraderie of the Traveling Circle of Friends in Central Vermont and enjoyed many international vacations. She was an avid gardener, earning the title of Master Gardener. In addition to her many talents, Sandra found pleasure in sewing, knitting, painting, playing the piano and swimming. Devoted to her grandchildren, she arranged trips so they could have cousin time together.

Sandra was predeceased by her husband, Howard C. Lewis, in 1987, and a son in 2007. She is survived by a daughter, a brother, a sister and extended family.