AUBURN – Sandra Brann Nelson, 70, of East Dixfield, passed away at the Hospice House of Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice on Jan. 17, 2015, with her loving children by her side after a courageous battle with cancer.
She was born on May 21, 1944, in Farmington, the daughter of Lauriston and Jeanne (Coolidge) Brann of East Wilton. She was educated in the schools of East Wilton and graduated from the Wilton Academy in the Class of 1962. Sandra married high school sweetheart Richard Nelson of Wilton on June 27, 1964, at the East Wilton Baptist Church.
In addition to being a full-time homemaker, she also worked outside the home as church secretary and collector of the Wilton First Congregational Church, as librarian for the Wilton Free Public Library and also at the Wilson Lake Country Club.
She enjoyed spending time with family, knitting and reading. She made hundreds of pairs of mittens, hats, sweaters, afghans and prayer shawls which she donated to local charities, always insisting on remaining anonymous.
She is survived by her daughter Becky Nelson and companion Randy Oliver of East Dixfield, her son Rick Nelson and wife JoEllen of Buxton; brothers Terry Brann and wife Sherrill of Wilton and Bruce Brann and wife Gayle of Brunswick; sister-in-law Joyce Palmer of Norway; her grandchildren Justyn Judkins and fiancé Erica Kidd of Freeport and Joey Thibodeau and wife Jennifer of Windham; her grandchildren Sadie Dyer and Bella Thibodeau; and niece and nephews; and special friends, Gloria Nile and Vaughan Gagne.
She was predeceased by her husband, Richard Nelson; father Lauriston Brann, her brother Barry Brann, father-in-law Manley Nelson and mother-in-law Blanche Nelson and brother-in-law Kurt Palmer.
The family wishes to thank all of the wonderful, loving staff of the Hospice House for their support and care.
Condolences and tributes may be shared on her memorial wall at www.wilesrc.com.
Public graveside memorial services will be held on Sunday, May 17 at 1 p.m. at Lakeview Cemetery in Wilton. The family asks that those who desire consider memorial gifts in Sandy’s memory to the Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice, 15 Strawberry Avenue, Lewiston, ME 04243. Cremation and memorial services are being cared for and provided by the Wiles Remembrance Center of Wilton.
I have so many fond childhood memories of “Mrs. Nelson” Sandy, she was a wonderful person. My condolences to Rick, Becky and the rest of her family.
I’m so sorry to hear this sad news. The good news is; she’s rejoicing in heaven today with Dick and her family. I’ve known Sandy since we were young and will always remember her as the happy, upbeat friend that she was. I was a newlywed at the ripe old age of 18 when I met Sandy thru the Fish & Game. She took me under her wing and welcomed me to the group. I never saw Sandy but she was always the same; with big hugs and smiles whenever or where ever it was. RIP my friend. You will be missed. Rocky and i are sending Love to the family. Rocky & Mary Jane Baker
Goodbyes are not forever
Goodbyes are not the end.
They simply mean; I’ll miss you
Until we meet again.
I will miss you Aunt Sandy! Your smile was contagious and you fought the battle to the end! I love you and will miss you!
Thinking of you Becky and Rick!
The light has dimmed in my universe with Becky’s passing. Looked forward to seeing her everyday ” downtown” ,usually with her Mom, and always with a smile on her face. My condolences to her family.
Sandy’s passing. Was thinking of you especially,Becky.
So sorry to hear this. Sandy was a wonderful neighbor, and a very friendly person in general. Always had a smile………….
Dear Ricky and Becky, Hi, this is your cousin Lori. I’m in Wyoming and haven’t seen you for a long time. We spent a lot of time at Aunt Blanche’s and your house. My mom (Sylvia) told me about Sandy yesterday. I remember cousin Sandy very well. I remember her incredible laugh, her talents, and the church activities. Of course, we were outside a lot at Auntie’s/ your house, spent much time there. I loved your mom and cousin Dickie, as we called him! The house was sure a fun place to hang out! Am thinking of you, missing you, and praying for you. I sure will remember good times with your mom. Will miss her presence greatly… Love always, Lori Holman Paisley Mother sends her sympathy as well….
“Lovely Lady”! So sorry for us all!
Our thoughts are with you all, she will be truly missed, she is one beautiful lady
Sandy was a wonderful Mother and friend to many. She is now with the love of her life. Love you BJN.
Scott & Linda Davis
You are in our thoughts.
Love,
The Toothakers
Beth, Cody & Kolt
Peace, Sandy.
There are no words to express how sorry I am that my wonderful Aunt has left us, however, I know she is joyously reunited with Uncle Dick.
Rick & Becky,
Please know how much you are in our thoughts. It just isn’t fair and doesn’t seem real. There are so many wonderful memories that you carry and I hope these will help you through this most difficult time.
Love you always!
Becky,
I am so very sorry for your loss my friend. Your Mom will always be in my prayers. She was a strong, brave women to be admired for her fight and never complaining. My sincere sympathy.
Love,
Diane
To the entire Brann family,
So sorry for your loss. May happy memories of Sandy help you in your time of sorrow. I remember her from high school as someone very nice.
Thinking of you all.
Rhoda
I was sad to see your Mother passed away Becky. What a wonderful lady. Love, Kelly