Sandra J (Byrne) Holinka

Sandra J. Holinka, lovingly known as Mimi, Great Gram, passed away February 4, 2025, at the
age of 74. A lifelong resident of Farmington, Connecticut, she was born May 15, 1950, to Paul
Joseph and Carolyn (Knibbs) Byrne.

Sandy was predeceased by her beloved husband of 56 years, Edward S. Holinka, Jr. Their
bond was unbreakable. In the end, they passed a mere one week of each other – a true
testament to their deep love and devotion. Sandy and Ed were high school sweethearts, and
she often said to Ed, “We did it, we grew old together.”

Sandy is sorely missed by her children: Diane (Mark) Sidoti of Farmington, Connecticut,
Jennifer (Rick) Bettencourt of Danvers, Massachusetts, Rebecca (Jon) Hanny of Colchester,
Connecticut, and Edward (Cassandra) Holinka, III of Thomaston, Connecticut. She also leaves
behind her cherished grandchildren: Sean Sidoti, Amber Sidoti, Josh (Samantha) Sidoti, Tory
(Lauren) Sidoti, Kailey Bettencourt, Emmett Holinka, and Summer Holinka; as well as great
grandchildren: Rylee Sidoti, Colton Anderson, and Savannah Sidoti. The oldest of 7 siblings,
Sandy was predeceased by her brothers Kenneth Byrne and Paul Byrne and his wife Elaine.
She is survived by David (Lauwrina) Byrne, (Cheryl) Byrne, Kenneth’s widow, Judy (Samuel)
Sferrazza, Guy (Nancy) Byrne, and Kelly (Butch) Breton, along with many loving nieces and
nephews.

Sandy enjoyed a lengthy career as a legal secretary. Best known for her creativity and sense of
style, she had an eye for detail that shone through, from her beautifully decorated home and
gardens to the jewelry she designed. Always dressed to impress in her signature animal prints
and jewelry she carried herself with grace and confidence.

From her love of gardening to her passion for sewing – there was nothing she could not create.
Sandy loved to vacation on the islands. More than anything else, Sandy took immense pride in
her family. She would brag about and spoil them every chance she could.

Sandy adored cats and there was never a time when she did not have one (or 2 or 3) lovingly by
her side.

Despite facing significant health challenges in later years, Sandy’s strength and determination
was un wavered, a true testament to her character. She will be affectionately remembered and
forever missed.

Honoring their parents' wishes, the family will hold a private celebration of life for Sandy and Ed
jointly.

The family welcomes memorial donations to The Polymyalgia Rheumatica/Arthritis Foundation.