Sandra Jeanette Delagrange

Sandra J. Delagrange, 86, passed on July 1, 2026, with her children on each side, holding her hand. She was born on June 4, 1940, in St. Joe, Michigan, to John L. and Mary E. Murphy. She married Jacob Delagrange in July 1961, and they were married for over 64 years.

She graduated from Woodburn High School and received her B.S. in Education from Ball State University and her M.S. from the University of Saint Francis. She was a decorated elementary teacher for over thirty years. She taught at several schools, including Churubusco, Wabash and numerous East Allen County Schools, with her final assignment being New Haven Elementary. She truly found joy and satisfaction in her role in the lives of her students and her career as an educator.

On paper, Sandra did not have the numerous accolades listed by her husband, but he knew, as did all that knew her, that she was directly responsible for his success. Sandra was also the kindest and most loving of mothers and grandmothers. No one in her family could ever doubt her unconditional love for them. That gift was one that each of them will carry in their hearts forever.

Sandra was an avid reader, which was a passion that she passed on to her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed golf, traveling, shopping and playing games with friends and family. She was also a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church.

Sandra is survived by her children, Leigh (Matt) Meinerding and Mitch (Mindy) Delagrange; grandchildren, Kayla (Lucas) Demel, Kyle Meinerding, Tyler Delagrange and Hope Delagrange; and great-grandson, Joel Demel. She is also survived by her sister, Nancy (Bill) Daugherty; and sister-in-law, Linda Murphy.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jacob; and brother, John R. Murphy.

A memorial service will be at 11:00 am on Monday, July 13, 2026, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 3425 Crescent Avenue, Fort Wayne, IN, with visitation one hour prior.

Visitation will also be from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at D.O. McComb and Sons Maplewood Park Funeral Home, 4017 Maplecrest Road, Fort Wayne, IN.

Memorials may be made to Holy Cross Lutheran Church School building fund.