Sandra (Castiglione) Shook, a cherished member of her community, passed away on November 5, 2025, at the age of 79 at Tufts Medical Center in Boston. Her death followed a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy of love and commitment to family and friends.
Born in Kingston, NY, Sandra was the daughter of Simone J. and Alice (Tobias) Castiglione. She also had a brother, Kevin S. Castiglione, who predeceased her. Sandra graduated from Kingston High School and later completed a secretarial program at Albany Business School. In 1971, she married Edwin M. ‘Ted’ Shook, who passed away in 2002. Together, they built a life in Worcester, MA, where Sandra became an integral part of the community.
A Life Dedicated to Service and Family
Sandra was a devoted member of the Blessed Sacrament Parish in Worcester, where she taught religious education and served as a Eucharistic Minister. Her commitment to the church extended to her role as a secretary, a position she held for several years. In 1991, she began a fulfilling career at the College of the Holy Cross, working in various capacities, including the student activities office and campus ministry. Over her twenty-two years at the college, Sandra was known for her passion for mentoring students and providing guidance.
Following her retirement, she continued her dedication to education by volunteering at the Nativity School in Worcester, further demonstrating her commitment to nurturing young minds.
Sandra’s family includes her two sons, Jeremy T. Shook and his wife Mary of Huntersville, NC, and Matthew B. Shook and his partner Amy LaRusso of West Islip, NY. She is also survived by six grandchildren: Tyler, Madeline, Teddy, Henry, Ryan, and Tate Shook. Sandra made it a priority to celebrate special occasions with her family, often traveling to notable destinations such as Goose Rocks Beach, Lake Winnipesaukee, Martha’s Vineyard, Guatemala, and Aruba for vacations.
A Legacy of Friendship and Kindness
Throughout her life, Sandra cultivated deep friendships, enjoying travel, cultural events, and book clubs with her companions. Her warm personality and humor left a lasting impact on everyone she met. She was known for her ability to make others feel special and valued, earning her the affectionate titles of Sandy, Mom, and Mimi.
Sandra’s calling hours will take place on November 14, from 17:00 to 20:00 at the Athy Memorial Home, located at 111 Lancaster St., Worcester. A funeral Mass will be held on November 15 at 11:00 at Blessed Sacrament Church, 555 Pleasant St., Worcester, with a reception to follow at the Hogan Center at the College of the Holy Cross, 1 College St., Worcester. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to the Nativity School of Worcester, located at 67 Lincoln St., Worcester, MA 01605. For more information on the school, visit their website at https://nativityworcester.org.
Sandra Shook’s contributions to her community and her family will always be remembered, a testament to a life well-lived and a heart full of love.
