Sandra Kay McWhorter, 73, passed away Sunday, March 30, 2025. Born on December 8, 1951, in Muncie, Indiana, to Beverly (Resler) and Howard Wickersham Jr., Sandra was a vibrant spirit who touched the lives of many.
She was a United States Air Force veteran and served at Scott Air Force Base as a medical tech. A dedicated genealogist, Sandra had a passion for uncovering her family's history. She loved the water, particularly sailing on Lake Erie, and cherished hiking in the scenic trails of Mohican. A talented writer, she published several romantic fiction novels, including "Cottonwood Place," "The Winds of Fall," and "The Diamond Road," which captivated readers and showcased her creative spirit.
Sandra was deeply committed to education. She served as a substitute teacher in Sandusky, many counties in Ohio, MANCI, RICI, Abraxas, and Grafton, and made a significant impact as a professor at Ashland University, where she taught English and Creative Writing. Her nurturing nature extended to her flower beds, where she found joy and tranquility, and her love for her dogs—Sheena, Grettle, Willie, and Quanda—was evident in her daily life.
She loved her pond in the back of the house, and she kept it pristine. Her daily routine had to start by feeding the birds.
Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and she prioritized spending quality time with them. An adventurous soul, Sandra enjoyed excavating bottles from their railroad property and was a fan of science fiction, especially Star Trek. She also delighted in attending music concerts, where she could immerse herself in the joy of live performances.
Sandra is survived by her devoted husband, John McWhorter; her children, Erik McWhorter and Brian (Melissa) McWhorter; her grandchildren, Alexis Reign, and Elizabeth Ann; former daughter-in-law, Anita Adkins; brother-in-law, Larry McWhorter; sister-in-law, Shelly McWhorter; brothers Greg (Darlene) Wickersham and Howard (Kathy) Wickersham; sisters-in-law Brenda Wickersham and Irene Charmichael; and several cherished nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Lona Resler, baby brother, parents, several aunts and uncles, her mother-in-law, Maggie McWhorter and two brothers-in-law, Richard McWhorter and Randy McWhorter.
Visitation will be held on Friday, April 11, 2025, from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at 1327 Ashland Rd, Mansfield, with a funeral service to follow. Advantage Funeral and Cremation Services by Wappner is honored to serve the McWhorter family.
