Sandra Y Merrell

A lady of strength, loyalty, good nature, elegance and timeless class. She prioritized her love for her friends and family above all else. She was at her best while making a happy home for her husband Bob, her kids, family friends and anyone else in the neighborhood that needed her special care. She always put the needs of others before her own every single day.

Sandra was born in Indianapolis in 1933 to James and Thelma Young, who always had the desire to move south. Her parents, extended family and friends were visionaries and settled in Hollywood, FL. They later helped develop several sites during the early days and growth of the city. She attended South Broward High School, was the head cheerleader and enjoyed her time at the new school forming many life-long friendships. Upon graduation, she attended the University of Florida for two years before returning home to wed her high school sweetheart, Bob Merrell.

Sandra met the love of her life, Bob Merrell, in 1949 while attending high school. Bob was a city-wise kid from New York and Sandra the all-American girl from the Midwest. After graduating high school and spending two years in Gainesville, Bob enrolled at University of Miami to finish his college degree and together they started their new lives together in Hollywood. They were married at Little Flower Catholic Church on February 6, 1954.

Sandra and Bob started a family of their own and their children meant the world to them. Mike, Lisa and Steve became the center of their lives. They always made sure that they provided what was needed for a happy home and were always there to participate in any and all activities in which the kids were involved. Family vacations to the Great Smoky Mountains, golf destinations, cruises and others were always filled with laughter, memorable travel “hiccups” and endless stories.

Though she loved traveling, pool time, and family gatherings, Sandra’s favorite role was being a grandparent. She treasured her time with her grandkids, family pets and loved everything about being ‘grandma’. Whether it was being in the pick-up line at school, transporting to extra-curricular activities or cooking her famous Baked Ziti, grandma was always there to enrich her grandchildren’s lives and help whenever needed.

Sandra had a soft spot in her heart for her furry friends. The first family dog was “Rusty” who became an official family member instantly. That continued on to all of the pets which followed ….all the way to “Ollie”, “Lucy”, and “Marley” who guarded mom during her elder years in Nashville , Oviedo and Boca Raton.

Sandra will always be remembered for organizing and making sure family events were memorable and fun. She had a way to brighten everyone’s day by her mere presence and selflessness.

Alongside her husband Bob, Sandra assisted raising her children in the Catholic faith. While mom had not officially converted, she made sure the kids received their sacraments and provided a solid foundation. Late in life, she expressed the desire to enter into the Catholic faith and was received into the Catholic Church at the age of 91 years young!

Sandra was preceded in death by Bob Merrell, and is survived by Mike Merrell (Darla), Lisa Jenkins (Dwayne), Steve Merrell (Ann), grandchildren Kim Carthen (Ryan), Krista Merrell Davidson (Brendan), Austin Merrell ( Lindsay), Chad Merrell, great-grandchildren Parker Carthen, Payton Carthen and McKenna Merrell.