The family of Alice Sisk of North Branford, CT announces her passing, and invites all who knew her to remember her here.
A life remembered begins, simply, with the telling.
Parenthood is the slow work of love. Alice did it well.
Alice Joyce Sisk, lovingly known to all as "Bunny," passed peacefully into eternal rest on May 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on October 8, 1941, in New York City, to William Drury Sutherland and Gertrude Claessen Sutherland, Bunny grew up in Wallkill, New York, where she formed lifelong friendships and cherished memories. As a young woman, she was honored as Miss Tilson Lake in 1958, a reflection of the beauty, grace, and warmth that would define her throughout her life.
She was the beloved and devoted wife of 52 years to Charles "Charlie" Sisk. Their love story began with a blind date arranged by her mother. A simple introduction that blossomed into a lifetime of devotion, partnership, and unwavering love.
Bunny and Charlie made their home in Poughkeepsie, New York, where they raised their family and built a life rooted in love and hard work. She was employed for many years in IBM with the World Trade Division in East Fishkill, New York, until her retirement in 1992.
In retirement, Bunny and Charlie settled in Dagsboro, Delaware, where they enjoyed over 30 wonderful years together. In her later years, she resided in North Branford, Connecticut, with their daughter and family, surrounded by comfort in her final days.
Bunny was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, cousin, and friend. Though many knew her affectionately as "Bunny," her daughter Gail lovingly called her "Alice." She embraced every role in her life with strength, gentleness, and steadfast love.
She found joy in life's simple pleasures. Losing herself in a good book, cooking for those she loved, tending her garden, toes in the sand, traveling, spending time outdoors, and dancing whenever she had the chance.
Above all else, Bunny cherished her family. She never forgot a birthday, an anniversary, or an important milestone. No one ever doubted they were remembered and deeply loved.
She is survived by her children: Dawn Hegarty (Skip) of Pasadena, Maryland; Michael Deaner (Maureen) of Rome, New York; Gail Sisk of Gardiner, New York; Jeff Sisk (Wendy) of North Port, Florida; and Tracey Maculaitis of North Branford, Connecticut. She is also survived by her younger brother, William Sutherland of Walden, New York. She was predeceased by her parents; her mother-in law Lucy Sisk, her sister-in-law Janet Sutherland; and her son-in-law Jack Maculaitis.
Bunny was blessed with seven grandchildren, Jessica Sisk, Kaitlyn Hegarty, Brittnie Benevenga, Michael Hegarty, Nicholas Sisk, Kara Maculaitis & Jonathan Hegarty. Six great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immeasurable pride and joy.
Her legacy is one of love, loyalty, quiet strength, and kindness. Her welcoming smile, bright eyes, and gentle wit will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who were blessed to know her.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many caregivers who provided compassion, dignity, and comfort in her final years, especially Alisha, Allison, Nona and Victoria.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bunny's memory to the Parkinson's Foundation. A tree may also be planted in her honor to celebrate a life that nurtured so many.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday morning at 11:00 at the W.S. Clancy Memorial Funeral Home, 244 North Main St. Branford. Burial will be private. Friends may call prior to the service from 10:00 - 11:00.
