Amanda Nyland, 70, of Old Saybrook, formerly of Guilford, died Aug. 31 after a long illness. She was born Nov. 4, 1942 in Abbington, Pennsylvania to the late E. Wesley O’Neill and Amanda (Druckenmiller) O’Neill. Amanda attended Beaver Country Day School in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts and later graduated from Colorado State University. She then furthered her education and received her masters degree in 1984. Amanda’s love of children and learning inspired her career as a special education teacher.

All who knew Amanda, lovingly known as “Mandy” or “Dede,” knew her as a beautiful, bright, articulate and cultured woman. She loved life, her family, and her friends (and her beloved puppy dog, Gloria). Her greatest passion and joy was as a loving mom to her children. Amanda’s zest for life and compassion for others was something that will be missed dearly by all who knew her.

Amanda is survived by her daughter Amanda Bickford of Westbrook; her son Neal Nyland of Madison; and four grandchildren, Elizabeth, Harry, Caroline and Maddie, all of Westbrook. She is also survived by her very dear friend and companion, Ed Montague of Guilford; her brother Wesley O’Neill and his wife Kathy of Arlington, Texas; and countless other friends and family.

Prayers for Amanda will be said Oct. 4 at 8:30 a.m. in St. Georges Church, Guilford. A private memorial will be held at a later date.