Sandra Jean (Shaw) Kihn

She was born in Springfield on January 16, 1938, the daughter of Marion Cloren and Pauline Bernice (Burch) Shaw. Sandra married Joseph A. Kihn on September 16, 1961. Sandra graduated from Springfield High School and earned her bachelor’s degree from Western Illinois University. She went on to work as a special education teacher and retired from District 186 after 20 years of service. Sandra also previously worked for 7 years with Illinois Bell and 2 years with DCFS as a director of downstate volunteers. She also taught Lamaze classes at both Springfield Memorial Hospital and St. John’s Hospital. Sandra was a member of First United Methodist Church. She was a member of the Springfield Ceramic and Craft Club, and enjoyed floral arranging, crafting, sewing, reading, and painting.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Joe; infant son, Joseph Peter Kihn; sisters Sharon (Harry) Dubinick and LaVona Rae Shaw.

Sandra is survived by her daughters, Heather (Wiley) Jenkins of Springfield and Ashley (Aaron) Pasbrig of Springfield; grandchildren, David and Michael Jenkins, Luke and Andrew Farnsworth, Brianna Stufflebeam, Heather Wilshusen, Grace Pasbrig, Jacob and Grace Walrad; bonus daughters, Shelly (Chris) Walrad and Carla (Steve) Wilson; and nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

Visitation and Ceremony: Family will receive friends from 3:30-4:45 p.m. on Monday, January 5, 2026, at First United Methodist Church, 2941 S. Koke Mill Rd. Springfield, followed by the ceremony at 5:00 p.m. with Pastor Roger Grimmett officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home- Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.