Sandra Gloria Mitchell

January  3rd, 1942 April  18th, 2024
Halifax , Nova Scotia
Sandra Gloria Mitchell

Obituary

On April 18, 2024, Sandra Gloria Mitchell, affectionately known as,” Sandi with an I “, at age 82, passed on in New Smyrna Beach, Florida with her devoted and loving family by her side. Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia on January 3, 1942, Sandi is predeceased by her parents, the late Chief of Police (Halifax) Verdun Mitchell and his wife Iris Mitchell. She is mourned deeply and survived by her Husband Howard Dewitt, her Children Michelle Drover, Darrell Drover (Kelly), Grandsons (Andrew and Mitchell),Her Brother Derek Mitchell (Heather) Niece ((Tori) and Stepchildren Lisa MacIsaac (Jay) Granddaughter (Jordyn) Grandson (John) and Kim Longaphy (Richard), Grandson (Jeff) Granddaughter (Samantha) and great grandchildren Kaylee (Samantha) and Wyatt (Jeff)

Sandi graduated from the Victoria General Hospital school of Nursing, Class of 1963A. While Sandi served on several units upon graduation, it was when she joined the Psychiatry unit, her unparalleled dedication to patient care really shone. Rising to become the Head/Charge Nurse of the Psychiatry Unit, Sandi’s gift as a mentor and caregiver was felt far and wide by both colleagues and patient alike, for many years.

When amalgamation of the hospitals in Halifax began, Sandi was asked to be an integral part of the amalgamation committee, helped oversee the closing of 9A and the transfer of patients to the Nova Scotia Hospital. Nearing retirement Sandi then spent time on the Cardiovascular unit as a Nurse Manager, before being selected to act as the Lead Ambassador for the VG/United Way fundraising program; where her leadership skills, influence and philanthropic values were greatly appreciated.

While Sandi may have retired from Nursing, she never forgot her skills and, on many occasions, rendered aid or advice to those who were in need, some of those people who may owe their life to her today. In fact , in her final days at the hospital where she passed she was more concerned with the other patients on the unit than her own health.

On her retirement, Sandi devoted herself to her family and her friends with the love and caring that personified her life. A safe Harbour for her children, her stepchildren, her daughter- in-law Kelly and her children’s friends who often reached out to Sandi for her sage advice, loving touch and a careful hand when required. Her door open to everyone, there are many who thought of Sandi as their second mum, an honour she cherished.

Her beautiful effervescent personality was a light that radiated to all those near, and when she walked into a room, all eyes were upon her. A smile that reached deep into people’s hearts, a warm and inviting laugh, coupled with her genuine interest in others, quite simply made Sandi the brightest star in the room.

All that knew her, knew she loved to decorate for the holidays, but Christmas was her favourite , and she would work tirelessly to create the magic that she shared with so many. Her love of Christmas lights and decorations began at an early age and to all that entered her home over the years, it was a magical world, full of Joy and Love.

In her later years, Sandi travelled with her husband, Howard, and beloved friends, to Cuba, the Caribbean, Europe, and Alaska. And while Sandi enjoyed the thrill of an adventure, her favourite  places were in Blomidon and New Smyrna Beach, Florida surrounded by friends and family. Family, a word that meant so much more to Sandi than those who are related by blood. The depth of her love for those she held dear will be felt by all of us for many years to come, and it is a gift that she gave to each of us in her own special way.

Sandi will be dearly missed and will be mourned by all that knew and loved her. And while we are all shattered, the pieces strewn about us, we must all continue to honour Sandi by living a meaningful beautiful life, as she would want. Sandi would often say, “Live, Love and laugh, for Tomorrow is promised to no one.”

A celebration of life will be held on June 29th, 2024, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Glen Arbour Golf Course,
 Arbourview room,
40 Clubhouse Lane,
Hammonds Plains, NS.

 A cremation has taken place, and Sandi’s remains will be interned in a private ceremony at a later date.
The family would like to thank the incredible staff of Advent Health in NSB,  Florida who treated her with such dignity, professionalism and compassion that would have made her proud of the work they were doing.

We also want to extend our sincere thanks to the neighbours and friends of Howie and Sandi in New Smyrna Beach, Florida who opened their hearts and their home to us during a very difficult time. It is because of all of you that mum called it her happy place, and now we understand. Thank-you.

Our eternal love, Michelle and Darrell.













Gallery


Memory wall

Post your condolences or share your Memories.


June 28, 2024
Sandi with an ‘I’,
Deepest condolences to all of Sandi’s family, Sandi’s friends, Sandi’s neighbours, Sandi’s acquaintances... I think you are getting the picture. Sandi was a very special woman and all that knew her would agree. It is said that People will always remember how you made them feel. I know I am not alone in saying, Sandi made you feel loved and special and that everything was going to be okay.
When I lost my own Mother, Sandi was there giving love and kindness, telling me to call her anytime you want to talk about it. And really meaning it.
She will be sorely missed on this earth but remembering Sandi will always bring you comfort, light, and surely put a smile on your face.
We love you Sandi with an ‘I’, till we meet again beautiful angel
Sarah Somers
June 24, 2024
Deepest condolences on the passing of Sandi. She will live on forever in your thoughts, words & actions. As your guardian angel in heaven she is now looking over you. May you find peace in knowing others share your loss
Anne Boudreau
June 24, 2024
Sending our deepest condolences to you, your family and friends. May your fond memories sustain you all through this very difficult time … Carol, Gord, Sylvia and Faye
Faye Roberts
June 22, 2024
I am sad to hear of Sandi’s passing. We grew up in the same neighbourhood, and enjoyed happy times playing together. Our friendship was renewed at the VGH where I worked as a dietitian. She was a great nurse. Her sunny and often funny outlook on life often lifted me up. We had many shared memories of neighbourhood acitivities, and talked of trying to have a reunion-sadly not realized. I am happy to read of her full life since I last saw her in the 1990’s. My sincerest condolences to all family and friends.

Penny (Chambers) Annand Ottawa, Ontario
Penny Annand
June 20, 2024
My SIncerest Condolences to you, Howie, Michell & Darrell, & of course, our Cousin Derek., & all Sandi's entire Family. Yes, Sandi ALWAYS lit up a room when she entered. I remember the Special smile on her face as she arrived on your Wedding Day, Howie. I also remember so many things, but the Touching call she made to me & others the morning Mom Passed away. A very Special Lady she was, & I know she will be Missed immensely, by so many.
Larry Kennedy
May 16, 2024
Dear Howie, Our hearts were broken at the loss of Sandi. She will forever be remembered as the angel she was. We will miss her frequent email notes and pictures. Our friendship was short but treasured. Blessings to you and the family.
Linda and Jim Van Dusen
Pine Island
Linda & Jim Van Dusen
May 16, 2024
We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your Mom. Sandi was truly a special person and was placed on this earth for a reason. Our hearts and thoughts are with the family, friends and all that we’re lucky enough to have met her.
Sending hugs
Ursula & Dan
Ursula Malinowski
May 15, 2024
Darrell, Kelly and Michelle - My thoughts are with you. Losing a mom/in-law (and grandmother) is not easy, especially one who has lived so fully. You are fortunate to have so many photographs capturing Sandi's dazzling smile to remind you of all your happy times together. While we crossed paths only a few times so many years ago, I do recall her "lighting up the room" and being very taken with her joy in all things. She will light up your hearts every time you think of her. Hugs, Judy
Judy Gilchrist
May 15, 2024
Nana and Kaylee
Kim Longaphy
May 15, 2024
Sorry to hear of Sandi’s passing. Sending condolences to the whole family. Cherish the memories.

Jacquie and Henry
Jacquie Verbruggen

Service


Please join us in a Celebration of Life for Sandi. Please wear bright colours. Saturday June 29th 3PM -5 PM with a Family and Friends Tribute at 3:30PM to 4:30 PM . Refreshments and Sweets will be served. Event and Address Below 
Location
Glen Arbour Golf Club
Arbourview Room 
40 Club House Ln
Hammonds Plains , NS 
Date/time
June 29th at 3:00 PM-5:00 PM
Family and Friends Tribute
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Share

Secure payment

First Lastname donation
Order total: $ 0
Your host will receive your funds within 24 hours.