Sandra Naiman

SANDRA LEE NAIMAN October 22, 1948 - April 15, 2026 Sandy Naiman, an award-winning journalist, would have written a word-perfect obit. However, she passed away on April 15, 2026 at the age of 77, following decades of chronic, increasingly complicated and challenging illnesses. She was a survivor. Remarkable resilience, unfathomable optimism and unwavering family support buoyed her along the way. She was predeceased by her devoted parents Annette and Arnold Naiman. And the dogs who brought her limitless joy: Murphy, Lucy, Riley. She leaves behind her beloved husband Martin Lager (Maya and Rebecca), sisters Elayne (Jeremy) Freeman and Glorianne (Graham) Naiman; her adored and adoring nieces and nephews: Lauren (Andreas), Allison, Maxwell, Phoebe (Pat) and her loving great nieces and great nephews: Rafa and Penelope, Ruby, Jasper and Marigold. A 30-year veteran of the Toronto Sun, Sandy was a fierce and formidable advocate for women's rights and for those living with mental illness- long before such advocacy was widely embraced. Her voice, both as a journalist and as a person, made a lasting impact. Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many medical professionals who cared for her with compassion and patience, including Dr. Anne Biringer, Dr. Ed Cole, Dr. Antonia Cappella, and Dr. Jeremy Freeman. Sincere thanks, as well, to the team at the UHN Dialysis Unit, the UHN staff on the 8th floor and to her devoted caregivers, Felsie, Pauline, Bernadith, and Shirley, whose kindness and dedication meant so much. At Benjamin's Park Memorial Chapel, (address not shown) (3 lights west of Dufferin) for service on Sunday, April 19th at 9:30 am. Shiva will be held following the service at (address not shown). Memorial donations in Sandy's memory can be made to the Annette & Arnold Naiman Family Endowment Fund at Baycrest 416-785-2875 www.baycrestfoundation.org