Naples: Sandy passed away on May 13, 2023 at age 79, at home with her family by her side. Born on July 19, 1943 in Watertown, NY to Rev. Willard and Esther Barber, Sandy was predeceased by her grandchild Grant Stone. She is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Alan Stone; daughter Teri (Gary) Gedart; sons Timothy Stone and Michael (Alana Fuierer) Stone; grandchildren Anne Marie and Kalley Wilkie, Emily Davies, and Henry, William, Owen, Hope, Ethann and Adelynn Stone; great-grandchildren Harlow Belille and Evren Davies; brother David Barber; several nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.
Sandy had a very eventful life, but was challenged early at age seven with polio. She decided then to become a nurse and follow in the footsteps of the hospital staff who had cared for her. After graduating from Ogdensburg High School, she joined the nursing program at Highland Hospital and earned a certificate as a Registered Professional Nurse. In 1964, after marrying Alan, she was employed full time at Thompson Hospital in Canandaigua. As responsibilities for Teri, Tim and Mike increased, her career commitment evolved to part-time. Then as she scaled back her nursing duties while raising her children, she remained a “lifetime nurse” who was always on call for friends, family and humanity. Once, she was recognized by Delta Airlines for taking quick action to save an unresponsive infant on her flight.
A consummate outdoor enthusiast, Sandy traveled the world with Alan to hunt, fish, camp and explore nature with indigenous people. No matter the journey, people were quick to recognize and appreciate her energy, kindness and ability to work side by side with different cultures.
Sandy took pleasure in decorating her home and bringing her surroundings to life with flowers and landscaping, as well as sharing her talents for cooking, knitting and sewing with others. In the early days of the pandemic when masks were scarce, she produced many handmade masks for friends and the local doctor’s office. She also donated numerous knitted hats to local children in need.
Sandy was also active in team sports throughout most of her life, playing for many years with the Honeoye women’s softball league and enjoying volleyball, bowling, and doubles tennis. She also loved attending plays, especially when grandchildren were performing; and always took delight in watching her children and grandchildren participate in sports like basketball, soccer, lacrosse, football, volleyball and tennis.
In recent years, she served as a volunteer on the Advisory Board of the Finger Lakes Area Community Endowment at Canandaigua National Bank, helping to facilitate charitable giving in the region. Her commitment to looking out for others built a strong foundation for teamwork in her family’s numerous business and philanthropic endeavors.
Sandy will always be remembered for her zest for life, skillful pursuit of the many passions that brought her joy, and deep caring for all those around her – family, friends and community.
A private family service will be held at Lakeview Cemetery in Honeoye, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations in Sandy’s memory may be made to: Hospeace House, P.O. Box 343, Naples NY, 14512.
Susan, Kaeson and I were fortunate because we talked Alan and Sandy into spending nights at our house on their way to and from Georgia/New York three times. They didn’t like the I-95 venue, but we persisted and so glad we got to “re-know” our cousins. One Alan/Sandy trip even included a visit to Zach’s (my oldest son) mansion near the top of a small mountain near Lynchburg. Alan and Sandy both are/were examples of what the Stone family is all about, highly educated/motivated in all scholarly and alternative fields, interesting and participating in all areas of life—a treat and inspiration to be in their presence. We visited Sandy and Alan’s ” log castle”, an example of their life, leisure, luxuries and priorities, an entire basement full of bunk beds in anticipation of their children and grandchildren spending days and nights with them. We thoroughly enjoyed them and I feel blessed that we got to experience Alan and Sandy both in their environment and in ours. Sandy and I compared “war stories” about our driving adventures with those charged with enforcing the laws. With her red Corvette, great looks and confidence, she was more successful than I; she was like Teflon.
I am so, so sorry about Sandy’s passing, but she is not gone, She was a real inspiration to all of us with her energy, intelligence, personality, priorities, and her children continue to spread her legacy as they build their lives and families to reflect her spirit. My greatest concern and sympathies are for her family and especially Alan, Sandy’s soulmate. I feel so bad I cannot console him, because I know how devastated I’d be if I lost my mate. I hope he can find benefit in having experienced the love of his life’s joy and what they accomplished, which continues with their children and grandchildren, exemplifying her spirit. I feel so grateful that when they visited us, we had a great time and enjoyed so many conversations and memories. Hopefully all Stonekin can celebrate Sandy and Alan’s lives at the upcoming Stone Reunion in Florida, instead of getting to know each other again at funerals, when we are sorry. Stone strong!
I will miss seeing Sandy on her visits to Jekyll Island. She was always fun to be around. Always ready to plan a get together, a dinner at her house or an evening out. She encouraged me with my crochet. She was so smart about a lot of things. She would take the time to answer questions I had about crochet and sewing. I remember one Valentines Day, the men were gone hunting. Sandy suggested Ashley, me and her all go out for dinner. What fun! We went to Bonefish and it was the quietest I have ever heard that place. We were the only ones that were not a couple. That is a fun memory. Sandy, I will miss you.
Allan,
I am so very sorry to learn of Sandy’s passing.
Remembering Sandy fondly from softball days. Such an enthusiastic competitor who emulated such happiness.
My heartfelt condolences to you and family.
With sincere sympathy,
Mary Jo Watson
Alan and family,
We were so sorry to read of Sandy’s passing. Although we haven’t seen much of each other in our kids adult years we sure enjoyed her company and laughter during their school years. As life went on we enjoyed running into the two of you and hearing about your travels and hunting trips with many laughs in between. I believe you all have many memories to draw on to help you through this tough period. With deepest sympathy, Ken and Jean
Dear Alan and family, Remembering past years and good times with you and Sandy. Taken way too soon, she will be missed by all who knew her.
Marilyn Matteson
Alan and Family,
Sending Love, Prayers, and Condolences. We were sad to hear of Sandy’s passing, but glad to hear of the Wonderful life she shared with so many.
I was at Highland Hospital, in training with Sandy, and we had some good times. She was always so energetic, cheerful, and inspiring.
Take Care
Alan & Family
Our heartfelt condolences for your loss. Sandy was not only a good friend, but a wonderful, caring and humble person to all who knew her. We will always cherish the many years and times we spent together. It was an honor, by her request, to read from her Bible at her bedside. Sandy knew she would be with her Lord & Savior Jesus Christ and wanted to be comforted by Gods word. Sandy will be greatly missed but will live in our hearts forever !
Alan,
We send you our deepest sympathies on Sandy’s passing. We enjoyed seeing her at JITC, and we’ll miss her. Prayers for you and your family. Hope you’ll visit JITC again in the future.
Alan/Family:
What a beautiful obituary and incredible family. Sandy was a remarkable woman. She always made Liz and I feel welcome and part of your family. We loved her. In particular she loved the out-of-doors and all the beauty in nature. On one particular adventure in Montana she observed numerous bears but rather than take the many opportunities she elected to wait for the perfect color and just enjoyed the pursuit, natural surrounding and the people she was with.. We had a ball on that trip. She was very social, funny, had an incredible laugh and could fit in anyplace.
Sandy was a leader. I remember her instructing her life long partner, Alan, to quickly open the fence gates so she could quickly move to the next observation point . She was always looking for the next opportunity over the hill in the great out of doors and life in general.
Thank you Sandy for including Liz and I in your life. We love you. You will be greatly missed but never forgotten. Alan my prayers are with you and your family.
Bob Childs
Alan and family, So sorry for your loss. I can remember all of the old Stone picnics when I was a kid, and it always seemed that the water fights or any other type of scheme were usually started by you or Sandy! She will be missed.
Even though we haven’t seen Sandy and Allen in many years, we have such fond memories of the good times together. Lots of laughter, experiences, and friendships never to be forgotten. Sandy was so full of life, we will miss her smile.
My heart is thoroughly broken today. Karen and I will miss her so very much. She was amazing to us and everyone at the Tennis Center that she loved and supported so much. Our hearts are with Alan and their family.
Mr. Stone
So Sorry to hear about Sandy’s passing. Have found memories for the two of you
Scott
A truly wonderful lady. A strong woman in her pursuit of her passions. A true matriarch of her family. Always with a smile, but never afraid to speak her mind. My thoughts, prayers and love are with the family. Thinking of you Alan.
Sandy, winter tennis will never be the same for us on Jekyll Island. You were such a good athlete. Your love for the game, your smile , your & Alan’s friendship to Bruce and I will never be forgotten.
You will be missed
Sincere condolences to Alan and family…..So many fond memories of times past.
We have wonderful memories of being with Alan and Sandy during our class reunion. She was such a good person. We are lucky to have known Sandy.
Alan, Teri, Tim, and .Mike,
I am so sorry to read of Sandy’s passing. She was a remarkable person and such a positive influence on our Jim. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.
Sandy, we are going to miss you so much. Hope your favorite place in Heaven has a fine oaked chardonnay and you always get a good pour.
Rest in peace. We love you
Alan,
I am so sorry to read about Sandy’s passing. She was a true friend and great customer when I was in business. I know she will be missed by many. My prayers are with you and your family at this very difficult time.