Obituary of Sandra Georgina Neil-Doherty

It is with heavy hearts that the family and friends of Sandra Georgina Neil-Doherty share news of her passing on November 13, 2024.

Born in Ramea, Newfoundland on March 29, 1964, Sandra had a commanding presence that was hard to miss even in the largest crowd. She was a lifelong animal lover – whether the creature was big or small, she had a place in her heart for all. 

But those who knew her best will attest to the fact that Sandra’s family was everything to her. She had a fierce and full love for her family, and they returned that love just as intensely. Although Sandra met her husband Laurie later in life, he was her first love and they deeply cherished the years they had together. 

Sandra was also a bonus mom for her nieces, Charlene and Lana, and a bonus grandmother to their children Jaedon, Konnor, and Avie. A doting mother hen, she loved and treated them all as her own. 

When Charlene’s boys were young and left in Sandra’s care, they’d be given instructions reminding them that “Aunt Sandra is the boss.” So that’s what the kids thought her name was—Boss. That name stuck. Sandra became known more widely as ‘Boss,’ and it delighted her. She truly loved and embraced everything about that nickname.

In 2022, Sandra moved from Nova Scotia back to her hometown of Ramea, fulfilling a long-held dream to go back to the much-loved island that she frequently mourned while living away. She was overjoyed to be back home, and only wished for more time. 

Left behind to mourn her passing are husband Laurie Doherty; Stepchildren Anthony and Lorie Dawn; Siblings: Susan (Vince) and their children, Dave and Cathy; Joyce (George) and their children, Tracy and Karen; Marion (Jim) and their children, Charlene and Lana; Larry (Roz) and their children Sabrina and Gregory; Great nephews, great nieces, friends; Brothers-in-law Stewart (Eleanor); Murray (Vivencia); Chris (Nenita); Sisters-in-law Connie, Cindy;  Sandra was predeceased by her parents, Georgina and Edward Neil; Mother and father-in-law Dorothy and John Doherty; Brothers-in-law Gerald and Tim; Sister-in-law Judy. 

At her request. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will take place at a later date. Donations in Sandra’s memory can be made to Rescue NL, or any charity caring for animals. 

"Do not stand at my grave and weep, I am not there. I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glints on snow.

I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle autumn’s rain.

When you awaken in the morning’s hush, I am the swift uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry; I am not there. I did not die.

~Mary Frye