Sandra Elaine Basmajian of Boulder City, NV and Concord, MA died peacefully on August 26, 2023 surrounded by her loving husband, Vahan, and wonderful children, Vasken, Varant, and Lorig. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and sister-in-law, Sandra was born in Nashua, NH on June 22, 1938, the oldest daughter of the late Alta Markarian Shattuck and George Messer Shattuck.
Sandra was a member of the International Order of Rainbow for Girls and enjoyed playing tennis, skating, was in a dancing troupe and was in her Senior play. As a youngster she waitressed at Priscilla’s, worked at the theaters, and took care of her younger sisters while their mother worked. Sandra graduated from Nashua High School in 1956 and excelled in academics.
Sandra was a compassionate and caring person who dedicated her professional career to others. Sandra worked as an RN at MGH from 1959-2007, gaining an AS. at MGH. While there she attended Boston University, where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing in 1961. While employed full-time she received her Master of Education from Northeastern University in 1967. She worked in several different departments at MGH and finished in the Orthopedic surgeries area. She knew as a child that she wanted to be a nurse and absolutely loved her career.
Sandra was blessed with a loving husband whom she traveled with to Europe, Egypt, Armenia and many other places. They spent many years in Nevada where they explored the Southwest and welcomed their family for many holidays and vacations. Whether it was a trip to the local coffee shop or a longer trip to Utah or Arizona, Sandra and Vahan adored the Southwest. Sandra was friends to many and enjoyed her water aerobics at the Boulder City Pool. She enjoyed knitting and reading mysteries. Sandra was a cherished grandmother to Alexander and Nora Basmajian of Concord, MA and Christopher Walker-Moore of Texas.
Sandra is survived by her husband, Vahan Basmajian, who cherished their marriage for 63 years, her children Abraham, Lorig, and Varant daughter in law Maureen, sisters, June Kelleher and Larna Guevin and many nieces and nephews. Sandra leaves a legacy of achievements, endurance, and love to all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to: St. Stephen’s Armenian Apostolic Church, 38 Elton Ave. Watertown, MA 02472. Services will be held at the Dee Funeral Home, 27 Bedford Street, Concord Center, with the wake on September 7 from 5-7 p.m. and the funeral on September 8, 1 p.m.
