Elizabeth Sandland Founded Long Hill Assisted Living

Elizabeth Ellen Sandland, owner of the Long Hill Assisted Living Facility of Edgartown and mother of two, died on Feb. 8. She was 75.

Elizabeth was born on April 16, 1943 in Birmingham, England to Leslie and Edith Sandland. She received her nursing degree from the Queen Elizabeth School of Nursing in 1963, and practiced all over the world: in England, the West Indies, California and Manhattan. She arrived on Martha’s Vineyard in 1985, and soon after began her mission, opening an assisted living facility where she cared for elderly Islanders for almost 30 years.

At Long Hill in Edgartown, her second assisted living facility after Brookside in West Tisbury, she selflessly provided a loving and safe space where dignity, grace, and comfort were in abundance.

At her retirement party at Long Hill in June of 2018, Elizabeth’s friends, and clients shared stories of her deep and positive impact on our community to a packed house. She remained positive and grateful throughout her life, saying just a week before she died: “Just be happy and enjoy every day. It is the way to say thanks to God for this beautiful life.”

She was predeceased by her parents. She is survived by three brothers, Chris, Stephen, and Paul; a sister, Mary; and her two sons, Jackson, and Daniel.

A funeral will be held at Grace Episcopal Church in Vineyard Haven on Saturday, Feb. 16 from 10 to 11 a.m. A celebration of her life will be held the same day at Long Hill (3 Long Hill Road in Edgartown) from 2 to 5 p.m. All are welcome. There will be a live band, food and drinks. At Elizabeth’s request, it will be a celebration to continue her joyful legacy.

For online guestbook and directions, please visit www.ccgfuneralhome.com.

Joyce Albertine , Edgartown

Elizabeth and her staff cared for my mom Gerry (Hope) Albertine with love and compassion. Mom will be 91 years old on July 4th. She has fond memories of her 3 month stay. With gratitude Joyce Albertine

February 13, 2019 - 11:28am

Laurie LaVigne, Edgartown

Elizabeth took care of my mother and step-father. We loved it at Long Hill - everything about the place and, most especially, Elizabeth! Long Hill became our social life for years and we sorely miss the joy of that place! It was not a place to end your life. It was a place to celebrate whatever the day brings. There were always people of all ages coming and going and lots of social get-togethers and, of course, our families were very well cared for by Elizabeth and her wonderful staff. Our hearts are heavy with the loss of Elizabeth.

February 13, 2019 - 5:44pm

Jennifer Riseborough-Coor, Cambridge & Chilmark

Elizabeth took care of my late husband & I feel fortunate to have had her for a friend. She was the most caring human being and taught me so much on dying with dignity. Elizabeth, you will be sorely missed and I send my sincere condolences to all the family.

February 15, 2019 - 8:20am

Paddy Arkins, County Clare, Ireland

I feel more than fortunate to have known Elizabeth for 25 years and worked closely together with her at Long Hill. We shared much in common . I sent my sincere condolences to Jackson, Daniel, Chris, Paul, Stephen and Mary. Love you lots Liz, Rest In Peace.

February 15, 2019 - 4:13pm

Donald’s daughter, Venus

Paddy - when Dad was so ill that I couldn’t physically care for him myself, I was so very fortunate that Elizabeth had room in her home to help me. I don’t know what I would have done without her and her unmatched staff, including yourself. Dad and The Rose got a kick out of you. Many thanks for your care and humor

February 16, 2019 - 12:58am

Monica

She will be missed. <3

February 18, 2019 - 4:56am

Sinead Walsh , Ireland, Dublin

I worked at Longhill as a student on J1 Visa for Elizabeth. Longhill was a remarkable home independent living facility. Just got news of Elizabeth's passing. So sad. Her legacy lives on in Jackson and Daniel, who she adored. A wonderful woman. Warm memories often at the most challenging of times. Dear Elizebeth, my sister and I, Sinead and Fiona Walsh salute you, Go N-eiiri go beo leat !!

April 4, 2020 - 3:51pm

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Elizabeth Sandland Founded Long Hill Assisted Living

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