Sondra Lois Forgue Handy

Sondra (Forgue) Handy of Burlington, VT and Longboat Key, FL passed away Wednesday December 17, 2025 due to natural causes at The Converse Home in Burlington after a brief period of declining health.

Born December 15,1931 to Hubert A. and Ruth L. (Lamson) Forgue in Montpelier, VT. She graduated from Montpelier High School in 1949 and married Joseph J Handy June 19, 1950 at St Augustine's Church in Montpelier. James J, Sheryl A. and Sheila L. were born in Montpelier. The family relocated to Burlington in 1956, and they welcomed Stacia E. and John J thereafter.

"Joe and So" as they were known, traveled around the country with great joy hitting all four corners of the lower 48 and Alaska and Hawaii for good measure! Sonnie enjoyed a large social circle not only in Burlington, but also in Longboat Key, FL where she wintered for the better part of 4 decades.

Mom enjoyed looking back at her days as a Candy Striper in Maine. She was a proud member of the Daughters of The American Revolution. Her many hobbies included bridge, needlepoint (extraordinaire), cross stitch, knitting, beachcombing and she was passionate about her gardens. Most of all, she was a homemaker dedicated to her husband and the needs of their five children.

She was pre-deceased by her parents, Hubert and Ruth, her husband of 59 years, Joseph, several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law and one niece.

She is survived by son James Handy of Colchester, daughters Sheryl (William) Moore of Colchester, Sheila (Edward) Cymerys of Corona Del Mar, CA., Stacia of Kennebunk, ME, and son John (Jennifer) Handy of South Hero. She is also survived by her sister, Christine R. Szarek of Williston and sister-in-law Janet Handy Dutil. She leaves behind 12 Grand Children, 18 Great Grand Children and 1 Great, Great Grand Daughter, all of whom brought her great joy.

As per her wishes, there will be no visiting hours or services. There will be a private graveside gathering at Resurrection Park Cemetery in South Burlington at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in care of LaVigne Funeral & Cremation Service. To send condolences to her family please visit www.vtfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers a charitable contribution could be made to The Converse Home at 272 Church St, Burlington, VT 05401.