Sandra Diane Keefe

Sandra Diane (Silvestri) Keefe, age 86, passed away on Monday, August 21, 2023, at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Needham, Massachusetts.  Born in Norwood, Massachusetts on June 19, 1937, she was the daughter of the late Michael Silvestri and Elaine (Allan) Platukis.  Sandra was raised in Walpole, Massachusetts, where she graduated from Walpole High School with the Class of 1955.  Following her graduation, she began her career with Herb Lewis Insurance Agency in Walpole, working as an administrative assistant.

Sandra married her beloved husband, Thomas William Keefe, on April 29, 1962, at Saint Catherine of Siena Church in Norwood, Massachusetts.  The young couple initially made their home together in Franklin, and after a short time living in Walpole, Sandra and Tom settled in Norwood to raise their two daughters, Maureen and Amy.  In addition to raising her two girls, Sandra continued her career with Herb Lewis for fifty years until her retirement in 2001.  In her retirement, she embarked on a new adventure volunteering with the Women's Community Committee in Norwood, working in the thrift shop and eventually taking on the role of board chairperson.

When she wasn't hard at work, Sandra could be found circling her neighborhood, putting between three and five miles on her walking shoes every day.  Back at home, she was an avid reader, looking forward to finding a new favorite book, or cheering for her beloved hometown basketball team, the Boston Celtics.  Most of all, Sandra dedicated her life to those she loved, her family and friends.  Throughout her life, she was an incredible baker, making her famous "cowboy cookies" for everyone in the house to enjoy.  Sandra was delighted to earn the title of Nana, welcoming her grandchildren and taking an active role in their lives as they meant the world to her.  

Beloved wife of Thomas William Keefe.

Loving mother of Maureen E. Malcolm and her husband, Craig, of Provincetown and Amy B. Ailinger and her husband, Joe, of Yarmouthport.

Cherished Nana of Kate E. Malcolm of Charlotte, NC, Laura M. Ailinger of Natick, and Stephen K. Ailinger of Washington, DC.

Sister of Larry Silvestri of North Attleboro, Jerry Silvestri of Bourne, the late Robert Silvestri, and the late Elaine Johnson.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend a graveside service at Highland Cemetery, 320 Winter Street, Norwood on Thursday, August 24, 2023, at 11:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Sandra's name may be made to the Women's Community Committee, 1091 Washington Street, Norwood, MA 02062.

Arrangements by James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, Walpole.