Sandra (Castiglione) Shook, a cherished member of the Worcester community, passed away on November 5, 2025, at the Tufts Medical Center in Boston following a brief illness. She was 79 years old. Sandra is remembered for her warmth, kindness, and dedication to her family and community.
Born in Kingston, New York, Sandra was the daughter of the late Simone J. and Alice (Tobias) Castiglione. She had one sibling, the late Kevin S. Castiglione. Sandra graduated from Kingston High School and completed a secretarial program at Albany Business School. In 1971, she married Edwin M. ‘Ted’ Shook, who preceded her in death in 2002. Together, they raised two sons, Jeremy T. Shook and his wife Mary of Huntersville, North Carolina, and Matthew B. Shook and his partner Amy LaRusso of West Islip, New York. She also leaves behind six grandchildren: Tyler, Madeline, Teddy, Henry, Ryan, and Tate Shook.
Sandra was an active member of the Blessed Sacrament Parish in Worcester, where she not only taught religious education but also served as a Eucharistic Minister. Her commitment to the parish extended to her role as a secretary for several years, reflecting her deep dedication to her faith and community.
Sandra enjoyed a distinguished career at the College of the Holy Cross, where she worked for over 22 years. She held various positions, including secretary in the student activities office, the study abroad program, and the campus ministry office. In these roles, she was passionate about mentoring students and guiding them through their academic journeys. After retiring, she continued to serve the community by volunteering at the Nativity School in Worcester.
Family was central to Sandra’s life. She made every effort to celebrate important milestones with her children and grandchildren, often traveling to popular destinations such as Goose Rocks Beach, Lake Winnipesaukee, Martha’s Vineyard, Guatemala, and Aruba. Her ability to foster strong relationships extended beyond her family; she maintained lasting friendships throughout her life, enjoying travel, cultural events, and book clubs.
Sandra will be remembered for her bright spirit, kindness, and humor. She had a unique talent for making others feel valued and loved. Her family and friends will deeply miss her presence and the joy she brought into their lives.
Visitation will take place on Friday, November 14, from 5 PM to 8 PM at the Athy Memorial Home, located at 111 Lancaster St., Worcester. A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, November 15, at 11 AM at Blessed Sacrament Church, 555 Pleasant St., Worcester, with a reception to follow at the Hogan Center on the campus of the College of the Holy Cross. 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, visit their website at nativityworcester.org or the funeral home’s site at athymemorial.com.
