Sandra Hope Person Wardlow

With hearts full of gratitude and sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Sandra Hope Person Wardlow, who died peacefully surrounded by family on April 28, 2026, at the age of 86 in Houston, Texas. A woman of extraordinary joy, filled with love for family and unyielding faith, Sandy leaves a legacy of kindness and love for others. She was relentless in her pursuit of Jesus, understanding that today matters, because tomorrow matters more.

Born in Clay City, Illinois to Jerome Turner Person, Jr. and Thelma Elizabeth Gallaway. Sandy (aka Hopie) was the proud sister of Tommie, Betty, and preceded in death by her sister Nancy and brother Matt. She was also preceded in death by her loving husband of 51 years, Dale Wardlow, who was the cornerstone of her life. Sandy and Dale are survived by their two sons; Greg Wardlow (Sue) and Tim Wardlow (Chere’) and six grandchildren; Zachary, Tyler, Luke, Maddie, Dylan and Emma Kate. Nothing made Sandy happier than spending time with her family and her six grandchildren meant everything to her.

Although she was born in Illinois, Sandy considered herself a true Texan, having moved to Bangs, Texas in the early years of her life. She would eventually graduate from Brownwood High School, Class of 1957. Following her graduation, she moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado and then Bethalto, Illinois where she met her future husband, Dale Wardlow, on a blind date. Sandy and Dale were married on August 31, 1962. Together, with their two boys, Sandy and Dale relocated to Houston, Texas in 1974.

Sandy had a competitive nature and enjoyed playing sports such as softball, volleyball and tennis. In her later years, she redirected that competitive spirit to any friendly competition whether it be a casual card game, LCR, Bingo or Rummikub. Sandy always played to win. But, as serious as she was about winning, she was even more dedicated to loving those around her, especially her extended family. Her family brought her joy.

She is survived by a legacy of kindness, compassion and an unforgettable zeal for life. She leaves behind not just her boys and their extended families, but also a blueprint for living a life of happiness, courage and grace. She showed us how to approach every day with a joyous spirit, enthusiasm and how to overcome life’s challenges with her positive nature. That positive nature lives on in those she guided, nurtured and cheered on. To know her was to be seen, understood and to experience her servant heart. She always gave of herself generously and she will be missed by all who knew her.

A visitation and funeral services will take place at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 13001 Katy Freeway, Houston, Texas 77079:

Visitation, May 8, 2026 – 6:00 to 8:00 pm

Funeral Services, May 9, 2026 – 10:00 to 11:00 am

The Funeral Service will be followed immediately by a brief Graveside Prayer Service and a Reception with the family onsite.

Those that are unable to attend are invited to join us for a live stream of the service, which can be accessed here: https://vimeo.com/event/5903647?fl=so&fe=fs

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a gift to Buckner International at www.buckner.org. Buckner International is a faith-based nonprofit that protects vulnerable children, strengthens families, transforms lives for generations and serves senior adults through Christ-centered values.