Sandra Cushing

Sandra (Matthews) Cushing, lovingly known as "Sandie," age 79, a lifelong resident of Wilmington, passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025, surrounded by her devoted family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Sandie was born on January 21, 1946, in Winchester, MA, the cherished daughter of the late Lloyd and Grace (Porter) Matthews. She grew up in a warm and loving home in Wilmington and graduated from Wilmington High School with the Class of 1964.

While in high school, Sandie met the love of her life, Jack Cushing. The two were married on September 19, 1965, and settled in Wilmington, where they built a beautiful life together and raised their two boys, Ed and Eric. Sandie and Jack were incredibly devoted parents, rarely missing a school function or a game, always cheering proudly from the sidelines.

Family was the heart of everything Sandie did. Her greatest joy came when she became "Grammy" to her five grandchildren, whom she adored. She embraced her role with boundless warmth and enthusiasm-attending their activities, celebrating their milestones, and cherishing each visit.

Sandie was known for her strong work ethic and caring nature. She spent many dedicated years with Sweetheart Plastics, beginning in the food department before moving into a role as a benefits administrator in Human Resources, where she worked until her retirement. After retiring, Sandie lovingly became an at-home nanny for the Peterson girls - Hadley, Sloane, Willa and Layne, quickly earning the affectionate nickname "Grammy Sandy."

Her passion for life extended to her beautiful yard and gardens, which she tended with pride. Sandie enjoyed mowing her lawn, planting vibrant gardens, and keeping her home perfectly decorated for each season. Her home was always a welcoming place, especially during the holidays, when family and friends gathered to share laughter and love.

Sandie and Jack have always been very involved in their community; Jack often organized social gatherings and functions for Wilmington alumni including softball games and Hall of Fame dinners. He could always count on Sandie to be there with unwavering love and support for his special causes. They also brought joy to the community by starting a bocci league in their own backyard. The courts soon became a beloved gathering place for both recreation and charity, hosting league play several times a week as well as special tournaments to support local organizations.

In quieter moments, Sandie enjoyed puzzles and expressing her creativity through crafts. One of her proudest creations was a handmade miniature replica of her son's home-complete with tiny furniture and decorations-which she generously donated to the Rotary Club for charity.

Sandie's legacy is one of love, care, and community. Her kindness, generosity, and thoughtful nature made a lasting impact on everyone who knew her. She will be remembered for her warm heart, her unwavering devotion to her family, and the joy she brought into so many lives.

Sandie is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, John "Jack" Cushing; her devoted sons, Ed Cushing and his wife Melissa of Easton, and Eric Cushing and his wife Jennifer of Wilmington; and her beloved grandchildren, Shea, Owen, Piper, Brynn, and Luke. She was the dear sister of Carol Wood and her late husband Dick of Portsmouth, NH, and sister of the late Lorraine Roy and her husband Ray of Leominster.

Sandie was the cherished sister-in-law of the late Lawrence "Snookie" Cushing, Jr. and his wife Marion; Patricia Robarge and her late husband Joe "Sonny"; the late Charlie Cushing and his wife Evelyn, all of Wilmington; the late Pudgie Cushing; the late James "Jimmy" Cushing and his wife Suzie of Methuen; Joan Buckley and her husband Ed of Tewksbury; and Gerald Cushing of Franklin, NH. She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to gather for Visitation at the Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington, on Friday, December 19th, from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held at the Funeral Home on Saturday, December 20th, at 11:30 a.m.

Memorial donations in Sandie's name may be made to Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, 383 Main Ave., 7th Fl., Norwalk, CT 06851. www.themmrf.org