Sandra (Castiglione) Shook, aged 79, passed away on November 5, 2025, at Tufts Medical Center in Boston following a brief illness. A devoted wife and mother, she leaves behind a legacy of love and community engagement.
Born in Kingston, NY, Sandra was the daughter of the late Simone J. and Alice (Tobias) Castiglione. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Kevin S. Castiglione. Surrounded by a large, loving family, she cherished the bonds with her grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Sandra graduated from Kingston High School and later completed a secretarial program at Albany Business School.
In 1971, Sandra married Edwin M. “Ted” Shook, who passed away in 2002. Together, they built a life in Worcester, MA, where they became integral members of the community. Sandra is survived by 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 also leaves behind six cherished grandchildren: Tyler, Madeline, Teddy, Henry, Ryan, and Tate Shook.
Community Engagement and Career
Sandra was a longstanding and active member of the Blessed Sacrament Parish in Worcester. She dedicated her time to teaching religious education and served as a Eucharistic Minister, alongside her work as a secretary at the church. Her commitment to education extended to her 22-year career at the College of the Holy Cross, where she held various roles in the student activities office, study abroad program, and campus ministry office. Sandra found joy in mentoring students and helping them navigate their academic journeys.
Even after her retirement, Sandra remained committed to her passion for education by volunteering at the Nativity School in Worcester. Her dedication to family was evident in her efforts to attend every birthday and special occasion for her children and grandchildren. She created lasting memories through family vacations to locations such as Goose Rocks Beach, Lake Winnipesaukee, Martha’s Vineyard, Guatemala, and Aruba.
A Life Full of Friendship and Joy
Sandra was known for her warmth, humor, and ability to make others feel special. She cultivated friendships throughout her life, enjoying travel, cultural events, and book clubs with her close circle of friends. Her home was often a gathering place, where she entertained loved ones and shared good times.
The community will gather to honor Sandra’s life during calling hours on November 14, from 17:00 to 20:00, at the Athy Memorial Home located at 111 Lancaster St., Worcester. A funeral Mass will take place on November 15 at 11:00 at Blessed Sacrament Church, 555 Pleasant St., Worcester, followed by a reception at the Hogan Center at the College of the Holy Cross.
Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Nativity School of Worcester, located at 67 Lincoln St., Worcester, MA 01605.
Sandra Shook will be deeply missed by her family and friends, who remember her as a bright light in their lives.