Sandra Hope Richards, 83, of Westport, MA, formerly of Flagler Beach, Florida for 26 years up until her move to Westport in 2023, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2025, in the Village House Nursing Home. Sandra was a beloved daughter, mother, sister, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose kindness and compassion touched the lives of many.
Born in Newport, Rhode Island, she was the daughter of the late Frederick Moulse, Sr., and the late Harriett (Maciejewski) Moulse. She grew up on the Aquidneck Island and was a proud graduate of Rogers High School’s Class of 1959.
Sandra served in the U.S. Navy Reserves from 1977-1981. Her motivated and hard work ethic led her to become an esteemed Inventory Supervisor at the Naval Undersea Warfare Center. She began her career in the tool crib, eventually working her way up to a managerial position through her dedication and hard work. Her colleagues admired her not just for her professional expertise but for the warmth she offered every day.
Sandra was a devoted animal lover, known for her lifelong commitment to the welfare of all creatures. She volunteered with several animal protection programs in Rhode Island and Florida, including the ASPCA, Save The Draft Horses, Potter League, local animal shelters, and Petco. Her early childhood was filled with a menagerie of pets, and this love only grew as she encouraged her daughter, Laura, to embrace the joy of animal companionship. Throughout her life, animals were an integral part of Sandra’s world, often accompanying her on adventures as she traveled the country in her motorhome, determined that her furry friends should always be by her side.
A world traveler at heart, Sandra explored many countries, including cherished visits to Europe, with a special pilgrimage to the Vatican in Italy. Her adventurous spirit extended across the United States, where she achieved her goal of visiting every US state. She created unforgettable memories vacationing with her grandchildren, often whisking them away to magical destinations like Disney World, the famous Chocolate Factory in Pennsylvania, and cruises.
Sandra is survived by her beloved daughter; Laura Viveros and husband John of Westport, her sister; Deborah Geiger, of NH, her niece; Lisa Tedeschi, of NH, her grandchildren; Damian Ferreira and Hope Sherman, along with her great-grandchildren; Odin and Rune Ferreira. Each of them held a special place in her heart.
In addition to her parents, Sandra was preceded in death by her son, Steven Sherman, her grandson, Brian Ferreira, her brother, Frederick Moulse, and her brother-in-law, Stevan Geiger.
Sandra leaves behind a legacy of love, hope, compassion, and adventure. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, reminding us to cherish every moment and to be kind to all living creatures. She will be deeply missed.
In honoring Sandra’s life and legacy, her family invites relatives and friends to celebrate her kindness, adventurous spirit, and love for animals. Memorial service details will be announced in March-April of 2025.
Burial will be held privately at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made in Sandra’s name to the Potter League for Animals, 87 Oliphant Lane, Middletown, RI 02842, or at https://bit.ly/potterleague
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