Sandra was born January 14, 1935 in Nashville, TN to Mary and Philip Brodnax. After moving to Birmingham, she and her sister Elaine attended Lakeview Elementary, then Ramsay High School. At Ohio State, Sandra met the love of her life, and partner for sixty three years, Edward Russell. They settled in Birmingham where Sandra raised her three boys, Robert, Richard, and John. Her spiritual home for over seventy five years was Temple Emanu-El, where she was both consecrated and confirmed.
Despite lifelong medical issues, Sandra had a strong will and indomitable spirit. She had her father, Phil's toughness, and her mother, Mary's grace. For better or worse, sickness or health, richer or poorer, rain or shine, she would make her way to Oak Street Salon in Crestline Village for her standing appointment. But above all was her love of family, and nothing made her happier than having her boys, their families, and frequent guests over for holiday meals and gatherings.
Sandra was preceded in death by her parents, Philip and Mary Brodnax, and her sister, Elaine Klein.
She is survived by her husband, Edward, sons, Robert (Charlotte), Richard (Erin), and John (Renee); grandchildren, Andrew (Dorothy), Laura, Hannah, Meredith (B.J.), Jordan (Sean), Daniel, Matthew, Joseph, William, Lauren and Michael; great-grandchildren, William, Vivian, Charlie and Jacob. She was also a doting mom to Winnie, Max, Baby Girl (Mama's babies). Sandra was blessed with six nephews, whom she treated as her own. She had many lifelong friends, who she loved, and who loved her dearly.
Special thanks to the many caregivers who helped Sandra through her later years, particularly Eric, Dwight, Terri, and Marie.
Memorial Service to celebrate Sandra's life will be at Temple Emanu-El, 2100 Highland Avenue, Birmingham, Alabama, at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday May 22, 2019. Rabbi Emeritus Jonathan Miller officiating. Donations in Sandra's memory may be made to the Rabbi Grafman Endowment Fund, Mary K Brodnax Music Fund, 2100 Highland Avenue, Birmingham, AL 35205.
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