Sandra J. Simmons

Staff
Posted 10/21/21

MENDOTA - Sandra Joy (Thryselius) Simmons, 78, of Mendota, passed away Oct. 17, 2021 at home, surrounded by her loving family.

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Sandra J. Simmons

Posted

MENDOTA - Sandra Joy (Thryselius) Simmons, 78, of Mendota, passed away Oct. 17, 2021 at home, surrounded by her loving family.

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled for the spring, which was Sandra’s beloved season. Merritt Funeral Home, Mendota is assisting the family with arrangements and will announce at a later date.

Sandra was born Dec. 21, 1942 in Aurora to Evar and Amelia (Plunge) Thryselius. She married Gary Lee Simmons on Nov. 25, 1986 in Kaneville. Gary was the love of her life and was never far from her heart, even when he left this world far too soon.

Survivors include three daughters, Mary Ann Collie, Alisa (Jeb) Stewart and Linda (John) Sala; two sons, Douglass Hansford and Carl Hansford; two stepsons, Joe (Kris) Simmons and Erik (Stacey) Simmons; one brother, Jim (Judie) Thryselius; one sister, Karen Thryselius; 20 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her honey kooch Gary in 1997; one brother, Richard Thyrselius; and her in-laws, Wayne and Beth Simmons.

In her working years, Sandra was a professional woman and worked as a buyer for several companies. She was known for her hard work, dedication and intelligence; however, this was not who Sandra was. Sandy, as many people knew her, was a gardener and loved the outdoors. She loved flowers and plants and shared her extensive knowledge and gardening skills with all who were willing to listen and learn. Her passion for gardening could be seen everywhere she lived, leaving each a more beautiful place than it was when she arrived. This beauty was seen throughout her yards and also through the love she shared to those she met. Her enjoyment for life and family could be seen in the simple pleasures she shared with them, like playing cards or dice with her kids or grandkids at the kitchen table and sharing too many laughs to count. Sandy also had a passion for Native Americans and was especially concerned for Native American children. She was a fervent supporter of our Armed Forces and all who bravely served this country.

Online condolences may be left at www.merrittfh.com.