Sandra Ellen Freedman

Sandra Ellen Freedman passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at her home in Louisville, Kentucky. She was 57. She leaves behind her sister, Susan, her uncle Barry, and her aunts Janice and Judy, all of whom loved her deeply.

Born in Pennsylvania and raised in Hillsdale, New Jersey, Sandra grew up with a curious mind and a signature New Jersey wit. She graduated from Pascack Valley High School and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Lehigh University and her master’s degree in psychology from the University of Hartford. Her life took her through New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Connecticut, and finally Kentucky, where she spent most of her adult years and built a life rooted in service and compassion.

Sandra dedicated her career to helping children in need, working as a psychologist with a quiet determination to make the world gentler for those who struggled. She retired from Seven Counties Services in Louisville in 2015, leaving behind colleagues and families who were touched by her empathy, patience, and unwavering commitment.

Her compassion extended to animals as well. A fierce advocate for their protection, she shared her home with five beloved “fur babies”—three cats and two dogs—who brought her daily joy. She also adored her many four‑legged nieces and nephews, each of whom added love and laughter to her life.

Sandra loved to explore the world. Her travels took her to England, Spain, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, and many Caribbean islands. She often laughed when remembering a trip with her late mother, when the two of them got lost in the Vatican and nearly missed their cruise ship—a story she retold with affection, amusement, and her trademark humor.

Sandra was an amazing, supportive, and loyal friend. No matter if you were near or far, she would always lend an ear if you needed to talk, tell a funny story if you needed to laugh, reminisce about childhood experiences to make you feel connected, or send a late-night dancing cat GIF just to brighten your day. Sandra always made you feel seen, heard, and cared for. You couldn’t have asked for a better friend.

Throughout her life, Sandra faced significant health challenges, beginning with a Type 1 diabetes diagnosis at age eight. She endured its complications with remarkable resilience, surviving breast cancer, multiple heart attacks, and coping with other serious conditions. Her strength was quiet but profound, and she met each hardship with courage.

Sandra also loved the arts. As a child, her mother would take her out of school for special trips to museums and Broadway shows in New York City—traditions she cherished and continued through the many Broadway roadshows she attended in Kentucky. Her favorites included Wicked, The Book of Mormon, and Les Misérables. She found joy in the worlds of her favorite TV shows and movies as well, especially Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Archer, and Star Wars. Meeting Carrie Fisher and Doug Jones—two actors she admired deeply—was a highlight she treasured. Growing up, she also loved playing softball and bowling, hobbies that brought her both fun and friendship.

A visitation will be held from 11-3 PM on Thursday, February 19, 2026 at Arch L Heady at Resthaven, 4400 Bardstown Rd, Louisville, KY 40218. Following the visitation, a committal service will take place prior to burial at Resthaven Memorial Park.

In honor of Sandra’s lifelong love for animals, donations may be made in lieu of flowers to No Kill Louisville (https://www.nklou.org/donate) or Tyson’s Chance Animal Foundation (https://www.tysonschance.org/donate) in her name.