Joyce H. Sandin

Ledyard - Joyce H. (Gerwer) Sandin, 73, of Ledyard, died unexpectedly on Friday, Nov. 2, 2012.

She was born in Jersey City, N.J., on Aug. 12, 1939, the daughter of Arthur L. and Helen (Zubryd) Gerwer. They later moved to Danbury where she graduated from high school. Joyce was a graduate of UCONN and a University Scholar. She was a member of Pi Sigma Alpha and Phi Beta Kappa, and was the recipient of the Woodrow Wilson Award. She worked for the Montville school system from 1969 to 2005, teaching 5th grade for 35 years. She loved teaching and was a kind and generous woman.

She is survived by her nephew, James Gerwer of Dahlonega, Ga.; a great niece, Heather Gerwer of Benson N.C.; and several loving cousins. She is also survived by Bob Sandin, a good friend and ex-husband of 33 years.

Special thanks to Erin Richards, owner of Continue Living, a companion service in North Stonington, for providing her with loving care and friendship enabling her to remain in her home which she was so proud of.

Burial will be private at St. Peter's Cemetery in Danbury. Donations in her memory may be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Ledyard Regional VNA, attn: Karen Goetchius, 741 Colonel Ledyard Hwy., Ledyard, CT 06339.

The Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl St., Mystic, is assisting the family.