Obituaries

Andrea Amelia Joy (November 10, 1943-December 29, 2025)

Published: Dec 31, 2025 12:53 pm

Andrea Amelia Joy, age 82, formerly of Florida and previously from Sandy Hook, beloved wife of Walter Alvin Joy for 56 years, passed away peacefully at her daughter’s home in Hamden.

Andrea was born in Bridgeport on November 10, 1943, to Augustine Kandro and Irene Lisko Kandro. She graduated from Notre Dame Catholic High School in Bridgeport in 1961. Her love of books started in high school, where she volunteered as a librarian.

Andrea worked as a data processor at AVCO Lycoming in Stratford for over 15 years.

She met her future husband, Walter, while competing in a company bowling league. After they were wed, the couple lived in Milford, where they had their three children. In 1973 Walter custom built their new home in Sandy Hook, where the Joy clan lived for over 30 years. The couple retired in 1995.

Andrea cherished spending time with her grandchildren and gossiping on the phone with some of her lifelong friends. She loved taking family road trips to Mystic Seaport, Sturbridge Village, Pennsylvania Dutch Country, and countless other magical destinations. Andrea especially loved family cookouts and holiday get-togethers. Christmas was her favorite time of year. She would display all her penguin decorations, and searching for the perfect Christmas tree became her ideal holiday pastime.

Andrea and Walter sold their house in Sandy Hook in 2008 and moved to Florida, where they enjoyed the warm weather and loved playing pickleball, bocci, mahjong, riding around in their golf cart, and spending time with friends.

Andrea is survived by her loving family including her sister Arlene (Fred); children Andrea McGowan of Hamden, Walter A. Joy III of Waterbury, and Justine Williams (Jeffrey) of Milford; eight grandchildren, Jesse (Kasey), Russell (Emily), Monica, Walter IV, Matthew, Danielle, Samuel, and Hannah; and two great-grandchildren, Brennan and Oliver.

Friends may call on Friday, January 2, from 5 to 8 pm, at Pistey Funeral Home, 2611 Main Street in Stratford. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 3, at 10 am, at the funeral home. Interment will follow at St Michael Cemetery, Stratford.

Former longtime Sandy Hook resident Andrea Amelia Joy passed away peacefully at her daughter’s home in Hamden earlier this week.

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My darling, You were the best GRANDmother a child could ask for. You created so many great memories & traditions that I have passed down to your Great grandchildren. You brought joy into every room you stepped into. Your laughter, singing, whistling and the signature Rockettes high kicks, is something I will always hold in my heart. There was something about walking into your home and being greeted by your beautiful face. *kiss on each check* followed by HELLOOOOOO Darling! The classical music playing softly in the background and your love and comfort made your home, a safe space. Somewhere, where love knew no boundaries. It was so much more than a home. I aim for the same in my home, and play the classic music 24/7, but it will never be the same. I pray I can be 1/4 of GRAND, you put in GRANDmother. You were so resilient. You found the positive in every situation. I look up to you so much. I remember begging Mom and Dad for years to change my name to “Carmen”. They didn’t officially change my name, but eventually started calling me “Carmenita” as I am a little you. THE HONOR. You were there for me, no matter the day or hour. You were always the one who would talk me through whatever hard situation I was going through. When my baby passed away, I refused to talk to anyone for 3 weeks. Except for you. You said to me “Better days are coming, babes. There’s always a rainbow after the storm”. Of course, you were right, because you are GRAND. I picture you in heaven dancing and laughing with him. Uncle Jay playing the money game with him. To know you are with your children again & with mine does bring me some joy. Twas the night before Christmas & New Year’s Eve, will never be the same. Another tradition you created. A memory that will last forever. Not just with me, but for generations to come. It may not be the same, but we won’t let it die. It will live on, in your name. To be your first GRANDchild was a blessing. I could write an entire book about you & all the amazing things about you. Even though we were robbed of time together & it makes me angry, I know I will see you again. This isn’t a goodbye, but a “see you later”. Just like we ended every phone call. Ciao, darling. I love you. MWAH MWAH! Love your GRANDchild, Kimberly aka Carmenita

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Andrea Amelia Joy (November 10, 1943-December 29, 2025)

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