Sandra Claxton

Sandra Patricia Claxton, 86,of New Haven, CT passed away peacefully on the 5th of April 2026, at Hamden Health Care Rehabilitation Center. Sandra was born on the 22nd of September 1939, in New Haven, CT to her adoring parents, Albert and Vivian Atkins. Sandra, affectionately known as Sandy, by her friends and beloved as Nanny by her grandchildren and Great-Nan by her great grandchildren. Was a beacon of light, love and laughter to all who knew her. Her vivacious spirit and warm personality will be dearly missed but forever remembered. 

Sandy grew up in Elm Haven. She received her education in the public school system graduating from Hillhouse High School. As a young girl, she worked in her mother's hat shop on Dixwell Avenue. Sandra was self employed for forty years prior to her retirement. Sandra had a zest for life that was reflected in her buried hobbies. She found joy in crossword puzzles, coloring dancing to the rythym of old school R&B music,and talking to her favorite cousin on the phone, Dennis Jarmin about proudly being his babysitter growing up. Sandra was a people person who loved to engage in hearty laughter and rich conversations with people of all ages. 

She wore many hats in her life, but the one she was most proud of was being Nanny to her grandchildren and great-Nan to her great-grandchildren. She would joyfully take all eight of her grandchildren for sleepovers at her house, making each morning a feast of their favorite breakfasts. And at bedtime she would create tents with sheets for the kids to sleep under creating magical memories that they would cherish and fondly recount. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Vivian Atkins, her sisters Diane Cobb and Joan Smith, her son, James Phaon Claxton. She is survived by her brother, Geary Atkins, her children; Christine Claxton, Tracy Claxton, Geary Claxton and Terri Askew (Raymond). She was a doting grandmother to her 8 grandchildren; Maurice, Geary Jr., Raymond Jr., Clayton Jr.,Jerrel, Aaron, Jasmine, and Brandon. A cherished great-Nan to 9 great-grandchildren. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of her numerous friends and extended family.

Her daughter Terri extends a heartfelt thank you to the entire staff of Hamden Health and Rehabilitation Center for the exceptional care they provided to Sandra. 

A celebration of Sandra's life will be held on Monday, April 13, 2026 at Colonial Funerals, 86 Circular Avenue, Hamden CT, 06514. Viewing will take place at 10:00 AM with a service to follow at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow at Hamden Plains Cemetery. Condolences may be expressed at colonialfunerals.com