Joyce Sanderson

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our mom, Joyce Sanderson on November 26, 2024

The youngest of eight children, Joyce was born to John F. and Helena (McPartland) O'Brien, at their home in South Boston on May 2, 1946. Her "Southie" upbringing was an indelible aspect of her character, permeating her keen sense of humor, unique lingo and unmistakable accent. A graduate of Gate of Heaven School, her catholic education was conducted by nuns, evidenced by her lifelong fascination with Latin language, enduring love of Christ and even her elegant handwriting (second place prize for penmanship, though she was not prone to brag.)

Although Joyce's heart remained in Southie, she took a leap of faith and bought a one-way flight to Hawaii. There she met her husband Dave and the adventure of her life truly began. Joyce and Dave could not have been more different: Small city girl meets cowboy genius. A chance meeting turned into a shared cup of coffee and soon thereafter a simple wedding with just two witnesses at St. Patrick's Church in Honolulu. Together Joyce and Dave seemed larger than life, yet the humble sincerity of their beginning would define their life together in many ways.

As their family grew, Dave's career criss-crossed the country, from west to east. In Dover, NH, with four young kids in tow, Joyce's homemaking skills flourished on their new farm. Despite her three-decker roots, Joyce embraced the barefoot homesteader life. She became an expert in canning, sewing, crocheting, baking and the art of mothering. Her door was always open and she never hesitated to help a friend.

With their next move to Portsmouth, RI, the couple's fifth child was born. From city to country and finally a suburban town. Once again Joyce welcomed her new surroundings in a seaside neighborhood. The proceeding years were busy raising kids, spending time with good friends and traveling, with visits to Hawaii, California and even Ireland.

Joyce was a gracious hostess that didn't get too fussy about things. This easy way about her made everyone who walked through her door feel like family. Joyce and Dave lived in Portsmouth together for the rest of their days. She was a committed caregiver to Dave in his later years, an unwavering helpmate who gave much of herself every day.

Joyce had an incredible wit. An improvisational turn of phrase could cripple anyone with laughter. She was simultaneously self-effacing and kind. Her voice was beautiful and on the rare occasion she would sing at a family gathering, jaws inevitably dropped. Joyce was very small but her heart was mighty. She will always be remembered for her grace, humility and strong embrace. Fun and extremely caring, she was the kind of person that upon meeting her you wanted to be her friend, and once you became her friend you cherished her forever.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband David C. Sanderson and her siblings Helen O'Donnell, Joanne Hubicsak, James O'Brien, Walter O'Brien and Lawrence O'Brien. Her brother-in-law Joseph Sanderson also predeceased her.

She is survived by her siblings Judith Berry and John O'Brien and sister-in-law Barbara Hunter.

Joyce leaves behind her five children; Daniel C. (Danielle) Sanderson, Kathleen M. (Louis) Upham, Diane C (Fernando) Faria, Mary E. (Benjamin) Smith and Helen J. (John) Maas. She is survived by eight grandchildren; Haley, Laura, Isabella, Kathleen, Joseph, Jack, Felicia and Olivia. She also leaves two great grandchildren; Isla and Daphne. She is survived by many nieces and nephews.

We will hold her in our hearts and miss her until we meet again.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, December 1, 2024 from 1:00-4:00pm in the Connors Funeral Home, 55 West Main Rd, Portsmouth, RI. Funeral Services will be Monday, December 2 with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am in St. Joseph's Church, Broadway at Mann Ave, Newport.