Born on January 25, 1946, in Sumter, South Carolina, Sandy grew up in a loving family with devoted parents and five siblings. She cherished time with her siblings and cousins, attended Sunday School and church, and sang in the choir with her beautiful soprano voice.
Our precious Sandy was a gentle soul with the sweetest spirit, known for her deep faith, caring nature and easygoing blend of Southern warmth and charm. Anyone who met her quickly became her friend, and she was loved by all who knew her.
She was married to Jim, the love of her life, for 41 years, and they cherished every moment together. She loved her fur babies, working puzzles and playing games, lunches at Jason’s Deli, and listening to and singing gospel music.
Sandy retired from the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer, where she worked in the Finance Department for many years.
She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Tamara Granger; grandchildren, Heather Toombs, Julian Granger, and Scarlett Granger; great-grandchildren, Tessa Toombs and Mason Clark; sister, Sylvia Craig and husband Leonard; brother, Jerry Kennington; sister, Linda Graham; and special cousins, Claudia, Judy, Patsy, Norma, and Gail. She will be deeply missed by her extended family, friends, and her Harvest Pointe church family.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jim; her son, Bill; her parents, Vernon and Sadie Kennington; and her brothers, Gene and Brady Kennington.
A memorial service will be held at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Rd., Columbus, GA, 31907 in the Wildwood room on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 11:00 AM, with a viewing at 10:00 AM.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff of St. Francis ICU for their compassionate care, and to the staff and residents of The Haven for providing a loving home in her final years.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Harvest Pointe Church of the Nazarene in Sandy’s memory.
