Sandra R Stephenson

Sandra Jean Stephenson, 76, of Austin, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Sandra was born Sandra Jean Reckelhoff on February 18, 1950, in Evansville, Indiana, to Irving and Mary Reckelhoff. From an early age, she possessed a spirit of adventure, compassion, and resilience that would define her life.

Sandra proudly served her country in the United States Air Force, serving at McClellan Air Force Base in Sacramento, California. She was honorably discharged in 1969. Soon afterward, she welcomed her first son, William Joseph De Herrera, who was born in Alamosa, Colorado, in 1970. During her time in Alamosa, Sandra shared many cherished moments with Nana Apodaca, where family gathered around her unforgettable Sunday dinners of fried chicken and mashed potatoes—meals that became treasured memories for those she loved.

Sandra later moved to Honolulu, Hawaii, where she welcomed her second son, Matthew Joseph De Herrera. After returning to the mainland, she began a long and rewarding career as a Phlebotomy Technologist in the Dallas area.

Her passion for helping others eventually led her to the Indian Health Service, allowing her to serve communities while traveling throughout the country. She spent time living in Washington and Montana, where she found joy in fishing, hiking, and the beauty of the outdoors.

Although she loved to travel, Texas was always home. She eventually settled in Austin in the 1990s, where she shared a home with her son, William. After retiring in South Austin, Sandra became affectionately known as the "neighborhood grandma." Her door was always open, whether someone needed a hot meal, a listening ear, or simply a place to feel welcome. She loved her family, treasured her many pets, and formed lasting friendships wherever life took her. There was always room for one more person in Sandra's home—and in her heart.

Sandra is survived by her son, Matthew Joseph De Herrera; her brothers, John and Larry; and her sister, Mary. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, William Joseph De Herrera; her parents, Irving and Mary Reckelhoff; and her sisters, Faye and Kathy.

A memorial service celebrating Sandra's life will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at

Wood Corley Fish Funeral Home, 5416 Parkcrest Drive, Austin, Texas.

Sandra's family invites all who knew and loved her to join them in celebrating a life defined by kindness, generosity, strength, and unconditional love. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.