Sandra Hulver

Sandy Hulver, a dynamic force in Houston hospitality and a beloved mother and grandmother, passed away on November 29, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on October 1, 1937, in San Antonio, and raised in San Juan, Texas, Sandy was the daughter of the late John and Helen Smith Kimbriel.

Sandy lived life with unapologetic zest and dedication to building Houston’s convention business. A striking redhead, Sandy blended a love of life and business savvy with a touch of mischief.

Her career spanned decades with catering and sales positions at the Rice Hotel, the Warwick Hotel, and the Westin Oaks. She was later the first woman sales manager at the Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau, where she also created a department responsible for convention services ranging from travel to lodging. Notably, Sandy later served on the board of the Bureau and was one of only two people named lifetime members. She later established her own company, Corporate and Convention Services, at the time the only business of its kind in Houston.

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Barbara. She leaves behind her daughter, Karin Kim Hulver, and her granddaughter, Karleigh Moore, both of Austin. She is also survived by two brothers, John Kimbriel of Colonial Heights, Virginia, and Jimmy Kimbriel of Harlingen, Texas.

The family would like to express gratitude to the many caregivers she encountered during her last years at Atria Westchase, Carnation Oaks and Fairbanks Court. Their kindness to Sandy is living proof that our world is filled with so many people who dedicate their lives to helping others.

Sandy had a soft spot for every dog and cat that entered her life, having raised shelties, poodles and chihuahuas and a bevy of cats. Friends can remember Sandy with a donation to the Houston SPCA. A celebration of Sandy’s life will be held at a later date.