Obituary of Sandra Gaye Thibodeau

With broken hearts, but with a deep appreciation for a life well lived, we share the passing of Sandra Thibodeau, loving wife of Wayne for 50 years, on Thursday, September 30, 2021, at her home. Born January 1, 1952, in Saint John, NB, she was the daughter of Leona and the late Leslie Shaw.

It’s hard to sum up a life filled with so much kindness in a few short paragraphs. Words could never do justice to the compassion and love that lived in Sandra’s heart and overflowed to everyone who knew her. Her family was her greatest joy. If you were looking for her she could easily be found with her husband Wayne at the hockey rink, football field, or whatever activity her beloved grandson, Ben, was involved in, supporting him and cheering him on. There are few bonds more beautiful than the one Ben shared with his grandmother. And because of all that love in her heart, Sandra never showed up to an event unprepared, from snacks for the kids to a helping hand to lend.

But don’t be fooled by her tender heart. Some of the softest among us are actually made of very strong stuff. Strength we saw in every part of her life including her work. During her more than 30 years at NBTel, her work ethic was widely admired, but most importantly, she was valued and respected by everyone. She loved her job and her colleagues and it showed.

Once she retired, her garden became her passion, spending hours caring for her own plants—and a few more hours trying to teach her daughters to do the same. The endless bird feeders in her yard were for all birds (which she loved), but she had an especially soft spot for Chickadees.

But what we will remember and love the most, was that she lived to do things that would bring a smile to others. Spreading joy wherever she went.

In addition to her mother and her devoted husband, Wayne, Sandra is survived by her daughters, Michelle Thibodeau-Coates (Daniel) of Saint John and Jacqueline Thibodeau of Kingston, ON; grandson, Benjamin Coates; brother, Lester Shaw (Rhonda) of Guelph, ON; and sisters: Dianne Hasselman (Ivon), Rose Eidt (Raoul), and Ruth Ross (Arthur), all of Saint John; her brother-in-law, Rick Thibodeau of (Demorestville, ON); her lifelong friend, Lesley (Ron) Avant; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Besides her father, Sandra was predeceased by her son, Richard Thibodeau.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to the many healthcare professionals who provided care to Sandra; Dr. Grey (SJRH), Dr. Comeau (GDLDUHC), Dr. Gallant and the team at the NB Extra-Mural Program, especially Brandie Allen. 

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424), where we welcome visitors on Sunday, October 3, 2021 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 pm. A Funeral Service will take place on Monday, October 4, 2021 at 11 am from Brenan’s Chapel. Due to COVID-19 health measures placed on indoor gatherings by the Government of New Brunswick, all those 12 and older attending the visitation and funeral service will be required to show proof of vaccination and a piece of government-issued ID, or proof of medical exemption. For those who wish, remembrances of Sandra’s loving spirit can be made to Bobby's Hospice, Saint John Horticultural Association for Rockwood Park, or by making a blood donation in her honour at Canadian Blood Services. Please share your stories or condolences at www.brenansfh.com.