Sandy Levine

Sandy Levine obituary, New York City, NY

Sandy Levine

Sandy Levine Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Mar. 28, 2019.
Sandy Levine, our dear friend and one of the founders of the New York Open Center, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 28, in New York City. Sandy was born in 1952 at Lourdes Hospital, a Catholic hospital in Binghamton, New York, the second of three daughters of Rose and Joseph Levine. She was a very special baby who rarely cried and had such radiance that the nuns at the hospital quickly fell in love with her. Wendy, Sandy's younger sister, remembers Sandy as a kind, loving, seldom complaining and thoughtful child. She was always concerned about others, traits that she would carry with her throughout her life. She was an excellent student and excelled in her studies throughout high school and at the University of Florida where she discovered her interest in world religions and philosophy. Sandy was always very popular and very well liked, free-spirited and fearless. Her bookshelves were filled with books on love and compassion. In the 1980s she traveled the world, meeting new people and making friends wherever she went. She thrived in nature and embraced life completely. Community was extremely important to her, and her dream for retirement was to live "in community" surrounded by nature. On the final Thanksgiving of her life, when asked what she was grateful for, Sandy said, "People. I am grateful for people." She helped to empower everyone she met, and for over 30 years she was a devoted volunteer and a vigorous fundraiser for Emmaus House of Harlem. Sandy arrived at the New York Open Center in its infancy (1984) and was essential in carrying out its mission for the past 35 years. The programs she nurtured influenced many thousands of students and helped to change the culture at large. Sandy's work contributed immeasurably to holistic learning that is the focal point of the Open Center. And, always, her sparkling enthusiasm and smiling presence, in all circumstances, bolstered us over and over. Sandy is survived by her two beloved sisters, Marci and Wendy, and all of us who became her community over many years. Sandy believed profoundly in a holistic world. Her love of spirit and people lived through everything she did. To honor Sandy's love of nature and her devotion to the Open Center, Marci and Wendy have requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Central Park Conservancy to endow a tree in Sandy's memory and the to the New York Open Center to establish a fund in Sandy's name. Links to the donation pages for the Conservancy and the Open Center are on Sandy's memorial page.

Sign Sandy Levine's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

February 14, 2023

Savitri posted to the memorial.

August 29, 2020

Victoria Stahl posted to the memorial.

October 17, 2019

Hope Martin posted to the memorial.

48 Entries

Savitri

February 14, 2023

I’m so shocked to catch up with this news and glad I can still add a few words from far away. Dear Sandy, so bright and loving and full of life, you were such a good friend when we were at Kripalu long ago, and I loved visiting you in New York. You made life such fun, I still see your smile and feel your warmth, and I’m so glad our paths crossed for a while in this life. And dear Wendy, if you read this, I send you all my love, you are also much in my heart.

Victoria Stahl

August 29, 2020

We were the "elders" in the room that day at Krapalu. Instant connection led to several years of deep and delightful friendship. I still can't believe you have crossed over. I miss you my dear friend. Thank you for being in my life.

Hope Martin

October 17, 2019

Sandy Levine was a good friend and a huge support for me personally and professionally. She really championed my work and helped me grow and gain confidence as a teacher. Since I began teaching at the NYOC in 1992, Sandy encouraged me to develop and teach at least six different class series, all encompassing my training and interest in meditation and somatic practices. I am truly indebted to Sandy for her steadfast support over the years. We were friends. I loved our meals together. I loved going around the city with her and feeling her infectious love for nature, for our great metropolis and the humans that inhabit it. She had a big heart and a lot of love to give.

Since Sandy's illness and too soon after: her passing, I have been keeping Sandy and all those who love her in my heart. Wendy and Marci, I never met you but I heard a lot about you. I send you my heartfelt condolences. I send the same to the entire NYOC community as we navigate our mutual loss.

Right after Sandy passed, I made a shrine for her and put some food on it for a few days that I know she likes (including a chocolate cookie).
Then I went to Union Square Park and put the offering at the base of a magnificent tree to nourish the tree and any critters that come along, and to nourish Sandy on her journey.
And ever since, when I experience ease and joy, or a good meal or a bright moment, I send that to her. I feel her presence as well - her wisdom, joyous heart and her humor. I sense her showing us the way to another realm we will all journey to, with her customary awe, joy and inspiration.

Sandy's passing has had a big effect on me. I am softer and more tender, more realistic about the preciousness of life, more connected to the moment.
May I carry you in my heart, always, dear Sandy! Please keep supporting me on my journey, and I promise, I will honor your memory.

much love and gratitude to you Sandy, always!
Hope Martin

friend
co-worker
teacher at the NYOC

David Lipsky

September 16, 2019

David Lipsky

September 16, 2019

David Lipsky

September 16, 2019

Sandy was one of the most deep, spiritual, loving and often silly and playful people I have ever known. We were boyfriend and girlfriend for a number of years in the 1970s. Although we didn't keep in touch over the years, we did have dinner together about 11 years ago and spoke a few times about 8 years ago. Even though we weren't in touch I've always felt that she was one of the most unique and truly beautiful people I have ever met in this world.

There are many fond memories of our times together but one in particular stands out. There was a major blizzard on a Friday in Jan 1978. We both worked in the city but our plan was to take the train to my apt in Sheepshead Bay. The train was running until Lincoln Rd by Prospect Park and then we had to make our way on foot. We caught a bus for a few blocks but it stopped. We ended up walking and clutching each other the 5 miles to my apt in insane blizzard conditions. When we finally arrived we were exhausted, but we lit some candles, put on Stevie Wonder's "Love's in Need of Love Today from "Songs in the Key of Life" and slowly danced. A very romantic moment.

I recently moved and discovered an envelope that I didn't know I still had of about 30 cards and love letters that she had written when she went on a trip to Europe. We loved each other but knew that ultimately we were different and I moved to CA (where she visited me once).

The world was a much better place with Sandy in it. RIP

Marianne Fuenmayor

August 10, 2019

To my Leo twin sister, I miss you today and will continue to miss your lovely presence here on earth. My condolences to Marcy and Wendy, her life blood sisters....Til we meet again, beautiful heart, Sandy Levine.

Heather Waters

August 9, 2019

Sandy was a beautiful person in every sense of the word. It was a privilege to be her friend and coworker at the Open Center. I deeply admired her dedication to the Open Center's work, but what I remember most about her was how much fun we had on tea breaks--her smile and laugh. Her contribution to the holistic health field is substantial and a testament to the generosity of her spirit. She really was all about love. Thank you, Sandy!

Jazell Choi-Andujar

July 30, 2019

Many condolences and healing to Sandy's family and friend. She was such a bright soul, and will be deeply missed.

Lyn Kremer

July 9, 2019

My very dear Marci and Wendy, I am shocked to learn that Sandy is gone. I cannot find the words to express how my heart is breaking. Sandy was the light in the world. She exuded positivity, wisdom, joy and fun. While we rarely saw one another, whenever we connected it was like there had been no space in time. The world is such a better place because of her influence and love for you and for everyone she touched.

Ici Sheed

May 19, 2019

Sandy, Biking around NYC on this beautiful Spring day brings back memories of walking around NY together. You noticed every spiritual gathering place ,every song coming from anywhere, nature everywhere, and you were sustained by them. I keep finding myself planning to bring you to new places I've found. Getting used to you being gone is going to take awhile.

Alberto Villoldo

May 2, 2019

Beloved Sandy, How many years and how many programs and adventures! Thirty years ago I realized I had always known you, and shared a mission to bring a little more love and beauty to the world. Carry on in the Spirit world where we will all meet again soon enough! Alberto Villoldo

Roger Jahnke

May 1, 2019

Sandy,

The last time I saw you, not so long ago, I could see you slipping away, when we hugged. I thought about worrying for you, but then deferred to celebrating the sweet, kind, inspired contributions you have gifted to this unusual world.

There is a small number of people who assisted me in my work -- in the empowerment of people to heal themselves. You, Sandy, is one. Like a detective, you investigated to find the work we do. You invited me to the NYOC in the early 1990's and you were invariably -- always -- a positive, encouraging, supportive influence. Light hearted, angelic, noble, inspired.

We -- my colleagues and I -- have reached so many people because of your support and advocacy. You made sure that I got to meet Ralph and Walter -- the founders.

I am sincerely thankful!

Sandy, you are such a brightness. So sorry to be missing you. So thankful to know you. You have transformed into light and led the way into the mystery.

A sad gladness in my heart with you!
Dr Jahnke -- Roger
The Institute of Integral Qigong and Tai Chi

Alisa Rose

May 1, 2019

Dearest Sandy,
Thank you for all your kindness and confidence in me. Because of your faith in me I taught yoga for many years at Open Center. Your quiet loving presence made the center a joy to be a part of. I was happy when you could make it into my class knowing how hard you worked. Your dedication to holistic well being and spiritual nature was remarkable. Grateful for you and the support you gave our family. Rest well sweet soul.

Sharon Smith

May 1, 2019

Even if you didn't know Sandy personally, you were certainly impacted by her presence in the NYC community of seekers, students, and teachers. The quiet but playful, intelligent force behind the NY Open Center's exceptional programming for so many years. It says something about her humble nature that in this day and age of self-promotion, I couldn't find a single picture of her on the internet after she passed. Thanks so much for posting this lovely one on her tribute page.

Her welcoming bright smile and voice on the phone made me happy to be in her presence for 35 years. A very sweet and gentle soul. I will miss her.
As Ram Dass says, "We're all just walking each other home."
She did so much of this for all of us...
Safe journey Sandy....

C M

April 29, 2019

My deepest condolences to your family for the loss of your love one. May your cherished memories created, brighten your days and help sustain you at this time. John 6:40 gives much comfort by looking forward to Jesus promise of seeing your love one again.

May the God who "binds up the brokenhearted" and "comforts all who mourn" sustain your family during this challenging time. (Isaiah 61:1,2) With heartfelt sympathy.

Wendy Levine

April 29, 2019

My precious beautiful Sandy was my best friend...my rock...the calming presence in my life. She was the most caring, compassionate, loving person I have ever met. She touched the lives of so many with her empathy and kindness and her pure heart. I always called her my earth angel...because I truly felt she was an angel in the form of a human being shining her light on all she met. My heart is broken...I miss you and love you more than words can ever say. But I thank God for blessing me with you... the most wonderful sister and friend ever. Fly high with the angels, my precious Sandy...you are Home. I will love you forever... your devoted sister , Wendy







Image may contain: 1 person, closeup

Madhu Maron

April 2, 2019

Dear Wendy and Marci,
I am so very sorry for your loss.

Sandy was a bright light, full of curiosity and heart. She encouraged me to develop and deliver my very first class for the Open Center and I will be forever grateful.

The last time I saw Sandy she complimented my scarf and we started a spirited conversation about the importance of color in one's wardrobe. I can see her sparkling smile in my mind's eye when I think of her.

Please know that Sandy will not be forgotten. Her impact and influence is vast and lasting.

Best,
Madhu Maron

Maria P

April 2, 2019

Dear Sandy, We love you, we miss you... And we are so grateful for your love and contributions to the NY Open Center and the holistic community. You were a leader in the spirit arts before it was ever popular, and this is a true sign of leadership, especially being a female leader at a time when this industry was still in its infancy in the United States. I always admired how you handled people and relationships with ease, grace, joy, respect, and polite connection. You always had a smile on your face, no matter what you might have been experiencing in your life. You always ensured my voice, perspective, and feedback was heard and included, thank you for caring. You brought amazing teachers and speakers to the Open Center, thereby allowing spiritual seekers to learn, embrace, and connect to their inner spirit. Thank you for all the souls you have touched. It feels unreal that you are now on the spiritual plane and I hope you are having an amazing time on the other side, looking down on us. You are remembered, loved, cared for, Thank you for your contribution to NYC and the NY Open Center. You were always demure, but played such a huge and significant role. I wish I could give you one more hug, to show the love and gratitude, we all had and continue to have for you. With all our love, From Maria P at the NY Open Center. Many blessings to your family.

Diane Williams

April 3, 2019

For Sandy: Thanks for being one of the kindest souls I have ever met. May your journey to the other side be met with light and love, blessings always Diane

Shyamji Bhatnagar

April 2, 2019

Deeply shocked to hear the news after finishing a workshop in Holland
Sandy was a dear friend since 1985and introduced micro chakras to thousands through my workshops and mantra concerts at the old and new locations of the prestigious Open center.
Her loss will be missed by the thousands who were inspired by her presence and smile.
I am deeply saddened.

Demitra Vassiliadis

April 2, 2019

Beloved Sandy, I send you prayers of peace and bliss as you journey home. Travel on the waves of loving gratitude that I feel for having known you. May deep peace attend you..May gracious love surround you...May your soul be Light and your journey bright...Travel wrapped in our love dear one, as angels and minsters of Divine Grace guide you home...Till we meet again..sweet and gentle friend...Amen....

Kirk Barrell

April 12, 2019

On behalf of the late Father David Kirk and everyone who walked through the doors at Emmaus House, we wish you great peace. Your spirit was so contagious and you were always there when Father David needed a sincere kind angel. We will always remember your kindness, friendship and deep spirit.
We know that you will always look over us.
Kirk

Laurie Schwartz

April 3, 2019

I met Sandy in 1985 when we brought the Hakomi Method training to the Open Center. From the very first time our eyes met I felt and saw my kindred spirit. Every time our path crossed there was a hug, warmth, a conversation and kindness. I have only good memories with Sandy. I regret not having more time with her. Is that the lesson for me now. That the people we love.. we love.. and we want to see and make quality time for. Sandy, you are in my heart for ever. Your life was a gift and a blessing to all the thousands of people you touched. You are in my heart for ever.

Diane Williams

April 3, 2019

For Sandy: Thanks for being one of the kindest souls I have ever met. May your journey to the other side be met with light and love, blessings always Diane

David Harp

April 3, 2019

Condolences to all who knew and loved her on this plane.
Her help and support allowed me to further my health and healing work, starting at the vary beginning of my harmonica meditation "career," decades ago.
I wish her well always, wherever she is and what form she may be in.
David Harp
Teacher at NYOC

Ralph White

April 3, 2019

Sandy Levine: A Heart-FeltTribute

The Open Center's beloved Sandy Levine died on March 28th. She had been with us from the very beginning in 1983 when all we had was a room in Walter Beebe's house on 12th St, a phone with no call waiting, a child's typewriter, and a powerful vision. Her dedication to the Center was total. It was the center of her life. And so it feels to us that the world has lost a great heart. She was a radiant, deeply loving woman whose life was all about bringing light, wisdom, beauty and compassion into this world. She never flinched from this mission and her personal warmth brought joy to the faculty she worked with and delight to the thousands of participants who benefited from the programs she created.

Sandy served as a program director for two decades. She was a fierce defender of the integrity and quality of the workshops, courses and lectures that are the heart of our work. Her eye was always focused on the authenticity and substance of the programs. Did they make a genuine contribution to consciousness? Were the presenters of the highest standard? Were the themes relevant to contemporary life?

She was brought up in Binghampton, New York and studied psychology at the University of Florida. After graduation she worked in the magazine industry in Manhattan before fate lent a hand in 1983 and she was drawn into the vortex of creative energy that was about to give birth to the Open Center. I remember many days in the spring of that year in which she and I wondered was this all a foolish dream. Did it have any chance of succeeding in the crime-ridden and chaotic New York of the time? But Sandy was an eternal optimist. Her personal radiance and constant, heart-centered goodwill helped to dissipate any doubts. And before long the Open Center was being greeted with enormous gratitude by New Yorkers with holistic values, and it went on to flourish against the odds.

Sandy was at the heart of it all. Aware, loving, wise and sensitive, she was o

You were a being infused with light. Light splashed from your eyes, and your playful spirit poured laughter outward into the universe unreservedly. You were a lover of everyone and everything! I remember sitting at a restaurant in Harlem with you and by t

Clare Fleming

April 9, 2019

You were a being infused with light. Light splashed from your eyes, and your playful spirit poured laughter outward into the universe unreservedly. You were a lover of everyone and everything! I remember sitting at a restaurant in Harlem with you and by the end of the evening the older couple at the table next to us considered you their granddaughter. It was a lesson in love for me. I also remember when I first adopted my daughter Janna and she was throwing a tantrum you said to me, with your eyes pouring love my way, you're amazing, I don't know how you do it. I didn't feel I was doing it well but that loving energy poured my way helped build the backbone of strength I've needed to raise this amazing but challenging child.

I remember how you danced, the lovely flirtatious energy you'd shed, laughing, as you twirled. I remember how you experienced angelic presence. I remember our jaunts around New York and how together, led by you, we would have adventures around the city you loved so much Harlem, Little Italy, the beach, the Village, the park, the rivers. I remember going to the sea with you, and your shining face of joy as you swam in the water. I remember being at Omega with you, and at Kripalu with you, and at the Open Center with you, first at Walter's house in our little office there and later at the first Open Center building. I remember our lovely visit with Wendy and spending time with the amazing Levine girls. remember our cozy Sunday brunches at the little Irish restaurant. I remember so many charming meals with you! I remember sitting together cozily in your apartment, and in all my various homes. I remember walking the trail at Pohick Bay here with you, and sitting out by my pond. I remember our trip to the Southwest.

I feel you kindly, gently, playfully pulling back that thin web between this world and the world you're in now. Thank you for being in my life, lovely Sandy. Blessings and light, my. beloved friend.

karen altschuler

April 6, 2019

Although I did not see Sandy often enough she was always in my heart. Sandy and I met in 1997 at the Open Center when we were sharing a workshop on the Chakras with Dr. Jeff Migdow of Kripalu and Lenox. We both agreed that he would make a great teacher trainer for the Open Center to have a 200 hr. yoga certification. Sandy and Jeff made it happen and we became members of the first class in 1998. We connected deeply and then later found that we had friends in common and so we saw each other outside the Open Center community. Several years ago she and I attended a Kirtan by Bhagwan Das at Dharma Mitra's studio and spent the whole night chanting and getting high on his vibrations. We floated out of there together late into the night and both of us had to miss work the next day. It took us 24 hours to come back to earth..
As she was sick towards the last few months I was sending her my sunrise pictures from the beach of south Florida where I live. It became a ritual and she kept saying that it lit up her day. Although I was unable to see her at the end we remained very connected through the photos and short emails. I was blessed and I will miss her tremendously.

Mark Nepo

April 6, 2019

On March 28th, we lost Sandy Levine, the program director for the New York Open Center. She was a warm, gentle soul, always welcoming, always present. Sandy was why I first spoke at the Open Center and it led to a friendship over the years. There is a chickadee at the feeder this morning, and as I write this, it tilts its head, much like she did. And so it begins, seeing those we love everywhere.
Mark

Jean McClelland

April 6, 2019

There are two qualities that define Sandy for me: grace and gratitude. They were her essence. In the many years that I have been teaching at the Open Center, and that Sandy has been my program director, there has never been a time when she did not acknowledge the contribution I was making to the Center and express her gratitude for it. There was not one class that I taught where Sandy did not stand at the door welcoming me. Sandy had a strong will and exacting standards. She had a vision for the Open Center which guided her and which she continued to renew in the programs she developed and supported. Sandy helped those of us on the faculty see our programs through her holistic vision and her standards. We knew it was an honor to work with her and to teach at the Open Center.

Sandy was radiant and seemed to grow more so through her Illness, even though she was often in great pain. I was fortunate to have a short visit with Sandy a week before she died. When I came into her room, she had just finished a session with the Physical Therapist. Of course, she knew his name, and he was charmed by Sandyeveryone was! He was her young and handsome physical therapist. And then, when her lunch came, Sandy introduced me to the young woman who brought her tray, This is Natasha. Natasha was so pleased to be acknowledged. It was pure Sandyalways showing gratitude and love. She truly did inspire and change those who knew her. We (I) will miss her so very much.

Simcha Raphael

April 4, 2019

Sandy was a kind-hearted spirit. We had a professional relationship through my relationship with the Open Center, but our exchanges were warm and friendly, thoughtful. I will miss her presence at the Open Center.

Ralph White

April 5, 2019

Sandy Levine: A Heart-Felt Tribute part one

By Open Center Co-Founder, Ralph White

The Open Center's beloved Sandy Levine died on March 28th. She had been with us from the very beginning in 1983 when all we had was a room in Walter Beebe's house on 12th St, a phone with no call waiting, a child's typewriter, and a powerful vision. Her dedication to the Center was total. It was the center of her life. And so it feels to us that the world has lost a great heart. She was a radiant, deeply loving woman whose life was all about bringing light, wisdom, beauty and compassion into this world. She never flinched from this mission and her personal warmth brought joy to the faculty she worked with and delight to the thousands of participants who benefited from the programs she created.

Sandy served as a program director for two decades. She was a fierce defender of the integrity and quality of the workshops, courses and lectures that are the heart of our work. Her eye was always focused on the authenticity and substance of the programs. Did they make a genuine contribution to consciousness? Were the presenters of the highest standard? Were the themes relevant to contemporary life?

She was brought up in Binghampton, New York and studied psychology at the University of Florida. After graduation she worked in the magazine industry in Manhattan before fate lent a hand in 1983 and she was drawn into the vortex of creative energy that was about to give birth to the Open Center. I remember many days in the spring of that year in which she and I wondered was this all a foolish dream. Did it have any chance of succeeding in the crime-ridden and chaotic New York of the time? But Sandy was an eternal optimist. Her personal radiance and constant, heart-centered goodwill helped to dissipate any doubts. And before long the Open Center was being greeted with enormous gratitude by New Yorkers with holistic values, and it went on to flourish against the odd.

Continued ....

Mark Nepo

April 6, 2019

On March 28th, we lost Sandy Levine, the program director for the New York Open Center. She was a warm, gentle soul, always welcoming, always present. Sandy was why I first spoke at the Open Center and it led to a friendship over the years. There is a chickadee at the feeder this morning, and as I write this, it tilts its head, much like she did. And so it begins, seeing those we love everywhere.
Mark

Anodea Judith

April 2, 2019

Dearest Sandy:

You were always a bright spot whenever I came to New York. You kept in touch year after year, always came into the class room to say hello and flash your sweet, sweet smile. NYOC won't be the same without you. You will be terribly missed.

May all the hearts you have touched guide you on your journey through the Bardo and beyond.

We love you,
Anodea Judith

Demitra Vassiliadis

April 2, 2019

Beloved Sandy, I send you prayers of peace and bliss as you journey home. Travel on the waves of loving gratitude that I feel for having known you. May deep peace attend you..May gracious love surround you...May your soul be Light and your journey bright...Travel wrapped in our love dear one, as angels and minsters of Divine Grace guide you home...Till we meet again..sweet and gentle friend...Amen....

Demitra Vassiliadis

April 2, 2019

Beloved Sandy, I send you prayers of peace and bliss as you journey home. Travel on the waves of loving gratitude that I feel for having known you. May deep peace attend you..May gracious love surround you...May your soul be Light and your journey bright...Travel wrapped in our love dear one, as angels and minsters of Divine Grace guide you home...Till we meet again..sweet and gentle friend...Amen....

Claudia Welch

April 3, 2019

Every interaction I had with Sandy--though there were not many--was memorably sweet, easy, and loving. I always felt that her humanity trumped business interests at each opportunity and it gave me such a whole and Good feeling to even make the arrangements to come to the Open Center, not to mention being there.

Godspeed to dear Sandy. I wish all her family and those who were close to her, all the strength and support you may need on every level for as long as you need it.

Leslie Gold

April 3, 2019

As a student and a volunteer at the Open Center I was blessed by Sandy's kindness, generosity and utter commitment. Just the thought of her makes me feel seen, accepted, and happy. Thank you and Bless you dearest Spirit, may you continue to share your love on the other side.

Suzi Tucker

April 2, 2019

To those who knew her better than I, how fortunate you were. To those who did not know her, I will carry forward her kindness and generous spirit as best I can. I will always recall her support and enthusiasm. I regret that we never had the chance to go out for that glass of wine -- and I am very grateful that we made the plan! Travel gently, dear sandy.

Diane Williams

April 3, 2019

For Sandy: Thanks for being one of the kindest souls I have ever met. May your journey to the other side be met with light and love, blessings always Diane

Diane Williams

April 3, 2019

For Sandy

Michael A Riddell

April 2, 2019

+++ Vale SANDY JO LEVINE ~ a very good kind friend and co+creator at our Lake Innisfree Creativity Center, Millbrook (upstate New York). Our focus on our commitments and endeavours to Global Village "Humanity & Mother Earth Sustainability".

Demitra Vassiliadis

April 2, 2019

Beloved Sandy, I send you prayers of peace and bliss as you journey home. Travel on the waves of loving gratitude that I feel for having known you. May deep peace attend you..May gracious love surround you...May your soul be Light and your journey bright...Travel wrapped in our love dear one, as angels and minsters of Divine Grace guide you home...Till we meet again..sweet and gentle friend...Amen....

Ralph White

April 3, 2019

Sandy Levine: A Heart-FeltTribute

The Open Center's beloved Sandy Levine died on March 28th. She had been with us from the very beginning in 1983 when all we had was a room in Walter Beebe's house on 12th St, a phone with no call waiting, a child's typewriter, and a powerful vision. Her dedication to the Center was total. It was the center of her life. And so it feels to us that the world has lost a great heart. She was a radiant, deeply loving woman whose life was all about bringing light, wisdom, beauty and compassion into this world. She never flinched from this mission and her personal warmth brought joy to the faculty she worked with and delight to the thousands of participants who benefited from the programs she created.

Sandy served as a program director for two decades. She was a fierce defender of the integrity and quality of the workshops, courses and lectures that are the heart of our work. Her eye was always focused on the authenticity and substance of the programs. Did they make a genuine contribution to consciousness? Were the presenters of the highest standard? Were the themes relevant to contemporary life?

She was brought up in Binghampton, New York and studied psychology at the University of Florida. After graduation she worked in the magazine industry in Manhattan before fate lent a hand in 1983 and she was drawn into the vortex of creative energy that was about to give birth to the Open Center. I remember many days in the spring of that year in which she and I wondered was this all a foolish dream. Did it have any chance of succeeding in the crime-ridden and chaotic New York of the time? But Sandy was an eternal optimist. Her personal radiance and constant, heart-centered goodwill helped to dissipate any doubts. And before long the Open Center was being greeted with enormous gratitude by New Yorkers with holistic values, and it went on to flourish against the odds.

Sandy was at the heart of it all. Aware, loving, wise and sensitive, she was o

Mark Venturino

April 2, 2019

Only knew Sandy through Facebook but when my mom passed away back in 2016 she would take time out to message me to always say nice words to cheer me up or just be there for me any time when i was crying she was a beautiful person both inside and out she will surely be missed by everyone...

Priscilla Bright

April 2, 2019

I was always touched and renewed by Sandy's natural warmth and caring way. We formed a whole relationship simply by passing in the hall at the Open Center, or on 5th avenue as I left work and she headed back from lunch. Sandy had a natural gift of kindness and one could feel it right away. Our talks were short but always had meaning - I wish her safe travels. She is a positive light.

Jean McClelland

April 10, 2019

There are two qualities that define Sandy for me: grace and gratitude. They were her essence. In the many years that I have been teaching at the Open Center, and that Sandy has been my program director, there has never been a time when she did not acknowledge the contribution I was making to the Center and express her gratitude for it. There was not one class that I taught where Sandy did not stand at the door welcoming me. Sandy had a strong will and exacting standards. She had a vision for the Open Center which guided her and which she continued to renew in the programs she developed and supported. Sandy helped those of us on the faculty see our programs through her holistic vision and her standards. We knew it was an honor to work with her and to teach at the Open Center.

Sandy was radiant and seemed to grow more so through her Illness, even though she was often in great pain. I was fortunate to have a short visit with Sandy a week before she died. When I came into her room, she had just finished a session with the Physical Therapist. Of course, she knew his name, and he was charmed by Sandy—everyone was! He was her "young and handsome" physical therapist. And then, when her lunch came, Sandy introduced me to the young woman who brought her tray, "This is Natasha?" Natasha was so pleased to be acknowledged. It was pure Sandy—always showing gratitude and love. She truly did inspire and change those who knew her. We (I) will miss her so very much.

Showing 1 - 48 of 48 results

Make a Donation
in Sandy Levine's name

How to support Sandy's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Sandy Levine's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Sandy Levine's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

February 14, 2023

Savitri posted to the memorial.

August 29, 2020

Victoria Stahl posted to the memorial.

October 17, 2019

Hope Martin posted to the memorial.