Sandra "Sandy" Gayle Stewart, 72, of Wyomissing, PA entered eternal rest on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at Country Meadows Retirement Communities. Born in Reading, PA on January 17, 1953, she was a daughter to the late Raphael G. Bendrick and Barbara Virginia (Bixler) Bendrick. In addition to her parents, Sandy is now reunited with her beloved husband, Ricky L. Stewart, her cherished daughter, Amanda Kate Stewart, and her 2 sisters, Marlene D. Hoover and Lisa S. Napoli.
A dedicated professional, Sandy served as an HR Director at St. Joseph’s Medical Center and later with the Berks County Communications Center – 911 Dispatch, where she eventually retired after more than two decades of service.
Sandy found joy in dancing, playing golf, a good laugh and being around loved ones for family gatherings. Her dogs were her loyal companions, and she had a fondness for ladybugs and classic I Love Lucy reruns. She was always up for an Amazon find, had a green thumb when it came to flowers, and rarely missed a chance to root for her Phillies or settle in for a good football game. In the kitchen, she made many meals with love, and according to her sons, no one could make beef stew quite like she could.
Yes, Sandy was strong-willed and a bit stubborn, but that fierce spirit was matched only by the depth of her love for family and friends. She could be tough, but she was never anything less than genuine and warm-hearted. Her absence leaves a space that can never be filled, but her memory will continue to bring smiles and stories for years to come. Rest peacefully, dear Sandy.
Sandy's spirit will be carried on by her 2 sons Rick L. Stewart and Michael J. Stewart and his wife Stephanie L. Stewart. She also leaves behind her brother David S. Bendrick; and her 5 grandchildren Jacob T. Stewart, Rachel K. Stewart, Zachary D. Stewart, Millie Kate Stewart and Stevie Leigh Stewart.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Sandy’s memory are invited to contribute to the Animal Rescue League of Berks County, 58 Kennel Road, Birdsboro, PA 19508, or to the Berks Ballet Theatre’s Darby’s Dancers, 201 Washington Street, Suite 401, Reading, PA 19601.
And here’s a little note for the days ahead: the next time you spot a ladybug, think of Sandy and let yourself smile because she would want nothing less.
