Sandra M. (Tumblin) Merrill, affectionately known by relatives and friends as Sandy, died at Life Care Center in Acton on March 2, 2022, with her husband and daughter by her side. She was 78. A resident of Billerica, Sandy was the beloved wife for 56 years of Dan Merrill. Born in Somerville on January 23, 1944, she was the daughter of the late Spray Tumblin and Marion (Himmelman) May. During her youth, she was raised in Bedford, graduating from the town's high school in 1961. She continued close relationships with a group of hometown friends by getting together for various lunches and holiday parties over the years. For 33 years, prior to retirement, Sandy was employed as an Administrative Assistant for Raytheon Corporation. She valued the many friendships made with fellow colleagues over the course of her career. She enjoyed crocheting hand-knit scarves for relatives and friends, and was a lifelong animal lover. She especially cherished her two cats, Max and Marv. In addition to her husband, Sandy will be forever missed by her devoted daughter, Denise Kalmansson and her husband Peter of Billerica, one grandson, Nicholas Evans, also of Billerica, and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by two brothers. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions to honor her memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 309 Waverley Oaks Road, Waltham, MA 02452 or Arthritis Foundation, P.O. Box 96280, Washington, DC 20077. Arrangements are under the care of Dee Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Concord.