Sandra Spence

Sandra was born on April 8, 1941, in Jefferson City, Jefferson County, Tennessee, to Lewis Ronald Hicks and Virginia Hutton. She lived a life marked by faith, curiosity, resilience, and deep devotion to the people she loved.

She is survived by her daughters, Veronica (Donnie) Wood and Cyndi Spence (Jim Montevago); her grandchildren, Everett, Mia, Vivian, Evana Foisy, Josephine, and Ezra Wood; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends whose lives were brightened by her warmth and steady presence.

Above all else, Sandra was a kind and soft-hearted mother who was always there for her children. Her love was steady, reassuring, and unconditional. As a grandmother, she delighted in spending time with her grandchildren, treasuring their company and the joy they brought into her life.

Sandra was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Robert Lee Spence II, and her brother, Ronald Dudley Hicks.

Throughout her working life, Sandra was known for her sharp mind and dedication. She spent many years at Vita-Mix Corporation in Olmsted Falls, Ohio, where she worked as an IT Specialist, and later served others as a Chiropractic Assistant. She took pride in her work and in continually learning new skills.

Sandra became a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 2004, a decision that brought her deep peace, purpose, and a renewed sense of belonging. Her faith became an important part of her daily life, and she especially loved sharing scriptures, attending church, and offering quiet encouragement to others through her beliefs.

Sandra’s life journey carried her to many places she cherished, including Gadsden and Oxford, Alabama; Naknek, Alaska; Dunedin, Florida; Scottsboro, Alabama; and finally, Louisiana, where she spent her last days. Wherever she lived, she built community and friendship with ease.

Sandra found joy in life’s simple and steady pleasures: long games of Canasta, working through puzzles, soaking up sunshine and warmth, and spending unhurried time with friends and family. She had a way of making ordinary moments feel shared and meaningful. Her laughter around a table of cards and her thoughtful conversations will be deeply missed.

In accordance with Sandra’s wishes, no formal service or visitation will be held. Instead, she asked that family and friends honor her memory by sharing a meal together or by reaching out to someone they have not spoken to in a while.

Sandra will be cremated, and her ashes will be joined with those of her husband and spread at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations of time or supplies to a local hospice organization, or donations to Veronica Wood to help cover out-of-pocket expenses associated with after-death care, including transportation and related after-care expenses. Monetary donations to Veronica Wood may be made by check, mailed to 14656 State Park Road, Bastrop, LA 71220, or via Venmo @alaskamommy13.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Elara Caring Hospice and Centuries Memorial Funeral Home for their compassion, kindness, and care during this time.