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Sandra Marie D’Ambrosia (Sandi/Sam/Mom/Nonni) passed away suddenly at the age of 80 on March 25, 2025, in Vero Beach, Florida.
Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, Sandra was the beloved daughter of Virginia and Joseph Vacirca. She moved to Cape Cod before settling in Vero Beach, Florida, where she spent the last chapter of her life.
A graduate of Springfield Technical College, Sandra pursued a fulfilling nursing career of over 30 years, working in the OR at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Massachusetts, and later at Cape Cod Eye in Sandwich, Massachusetts. Sandra was known for her compassionate care and unwavering commitment to helping others. Her dedication to the nursing profession was only matched by her generosity and kindness, always ready to lend a hand or offer comfort wherever needed.
In addition to her career, Sandra was an avid volunteer at her residence in Grove Isle, where she formed deep connections with her neighbors and brought joy to those around her with her spirit of service.
Sandra was preceded in death by her husband of 29 years and the love of her life, Hugi D’Ambrosia, and two of her sisters, Joanne Taylor and Patricia Guyer. She is survived by her daughters, CariAnne Couture and Adina Rosa (husband Alex); her granddaughters, Tesia Poirier (husband Devin), Alexandra Couture, and Mikayla Couture (boyfriend Shane); her great-granddaughter, Melody Poirier; her sister, Maureen Beaulieu; her brother, Joseph Vacirca; her grandpups Valentine and Rebel; and her beloved dog, Lucky. Sandra also leaves behind her best friend of 60 years, Roseanne DeRose, and many more close family and friends.
She was loved by everyone who knew her. Sandra had a zest for life and was always the life of the party. She loved dancing on Friday nights, often as a devoted “groupie” to her favorite band, Funfest. Her Tuesday nights were spent enjoying heated and joyful rounds of dominoes, while Thursdays were reserved for playing Zilch, a game she loved. Sandra was incredibly proud of her family—her Carebear, her Ali Oops, her Mikayla Shayne, and her Mouse—and was thrilled that Mikayla followed her passion for helping others with a degree in nursing. She was also beyond excited to be a great-grandmother to little Melody, taking on the title of “Gnonni” with pride and joy.
Sandra will be remembered for her love of spending time with family and friends, her love for reading, dancing, knitting, making her famous limoncello, and preparing big Italian dinners with meatballs.
She was truly one of a kind and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to nonprofit: Canine Assisted Therapy https://catdogs.org.
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
© 2025 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Linda Dunphy - Friend
March 31, 2025, 10:52 pm
I was privileged to work with Sandi at Cape Cod Eye. Always a great nurse and a pleasure to work with.
Joyce Micare - Dear Friend
March 31, 2025, 11:12 pm
Sam (honey bun) was a very dear friend to me for the last eleven years Dan and I have lived in Grove isle. She was always there for me. She has a big heart ❤️ and a loving personality. I loved her the first time I met her, she was my kind of lady crazy like me. I will miss you my Dear friend. R.I.P God has recieved an “Angel” love ❤️ ya. Joyce and Dan
Kristi Hall - Friend
April 1, 2025, 12:17 am
Your family has my deep sympathy. As a resident of Grove Isle I got to know Sandy and Lucky while walking my dog. She always had time for a chat and special attention for my dog. I will remember Sandy for her bright, beautiful smile and sparkling eyes. She brighten up any place she was at. Let your wonderful memories of her (there must be many) comfort you.
Deborah Pietras - Grandmother
April 1, 2025, 1:47 am
Cari Alex,Kay and Tesia You all have been in my prayers. I know the heart ache you all our going thru. I know she will be with you always in your hearts and in each other. She was the best mom and Non to all. She loved life and people and I am sure she wants you to live yours too. She was the best cheerleader. Love ya Mike and Gram
Linda Durso and Carmine Raffa - Friend
April 1, 2025, 1:52 am
My husband and I knew Sandy from attending Grove Isle functions. She always welcomed us with her beautiful smile. Even though we didn’t see her often, we considered her a friend and will miss her dearly. She was a wonderful person. Rest In Peace dear Sandy.
Marlene Alder - Friend
April 1, 2025, 2:11 am
Sandi was a vivacious, loving person. She will be missed by everyone she touched in her life. She is with Hugh in heaven. Love you and miss you so much Sandi.
Karen Rahilly - Friend
April 1, 2025, 11:25 am
Cari, My deepest condolences to you and your family for the loss of your spirited mom. Sandi was a great friend and wonderful to be with. I have many, many fantastic memories and will cherish every one of them. ❤️
DeNeen Bogdanowicz - Friend
April 1, 2025, 12:40 pm
Sandi was a beautiful woman inside and out. She shone like the sun and made everyone around feel warm and loved. She loved to have a good time and enjoyed her life to the fullest. She was my parents’ dear friend, and I am happy I got to know her through them on my trips to Grove Isle. Sandi will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and being loved by her.
Kelly Hagen - Grove Isle Office
April 1, 2025, 12:46 pm
Grove Isle will not be the same without her big smile. She was one of the kindest people ever. We will miss her very much.
Cari Couture - Daughter
April 2, 2025, 12:50 pm
I’ve picked up the phone twice now to call you. Idk what I’m going to do when I really, really, need to talk to you about something important. I will continue to talk to you every single day. I listened to my saved message with you singing me Happy Birthday yesterday.I hope to never lose that…I haven’t called your phone yet! Tesia has a wonderful video of you on Tuesday morning before knitting, why were you scraping your feet though? Lol I/we love so so so very much!! Happy 29th Anniversary today too! I know you will be treated like the Queen you are!! ❤️