Sandra "Sandy" (Bjorson) McLaughlin

NEW SALEM- Sandra H. “Sandy”(Bjorson) McLaughlin, 78, of Meetinghouse Lane, New Salem, Massachusetts, sadly passed away at home on May 24, 2026 surrounded by loved ones.

Born in Gardner on March 15, 1948, she was the daughter of Walter and Virginia (Mundell) Bjorson. Sandra graduated from Athol High School in 1966.

On February 24, 1968, Sandra married the love of her life, Jon “Tanka” McLaughlin, at St. Mary’s Church in Orange and enjoyed 43 years together until his passing on July 5, 2011.

Sandra wore many hats before working for McLaughlin Paving along-side her husband. After losing her husband in 2011, Sandra continued the business for five more years before retiring.

Sandra was devoted to her family. She was the caretaker for her beloved grandchildren, who were her everything to her. She not only took on the gram role with her own, but with many others as well. She would say nice to meet you just call me “gram” I’m everyone’s gram.

She had a way of knowing what everyone needed, from extra hugs, funny jokes, an ear to lsten, advice to give but never judging. She loved unconditionally with her generous, huge heart, spitfire personality and kindness to all. Always putting others before herself, never wanting anyone to worry about her.

Sandra was predeceased by her husband Tanka, brother Walter Bjorson and sister Doreen Wickland.

Sandra is survived by her daughter Kellie McLaughlin and her companion Scott Vescovi and his son Jordan Vescovi who thought of her as his grandmother; her grandchildren, Mya Ballard and her companion Thomas Jones, Emile (Ballard) Luks and her husband Jordan Lucks of Chester, VT; great grandchildren, Ellie Jo Lee and Everett Jon Luks; a cousin David Savoy who was like a brother; and many friends.

Calling hours will be Monday, June 1, 2026 from 9:30- 11 a.m., followed by a service at 11 a.m., all at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange.

Interment will be in South Cemetery, Orange.

The gathering will be at the Orange American Legion- Donald Hurtle Post 172., 40 Daniel Shays Highway, Orange, for family and friends, with a pot luck luncheon. Feel free to bring a dish if you wish. The legion will be open at 9 a.m. to drop off food. Please contact Nancy Ares on Facebook to let her know what dish you are planning on bringing.

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

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