Sandra was born February 6, 1962, in Odessa Texas to the late Willie Holbert Sr. and Erie L. Roy. She transitioned to heaven on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, leaving behind a legacy that touched the lives of many individuals. She was a daughter, sister, mom, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend, and teacher.
Sandra was a remarkable woman whose life was a testament to love, dedication, and resilience. She was a loving mother to two children, Nilandra (Don) Canyon and Joshua (Inisha) Carter. Her devotion to her children was amazing. She went above and beyond to nurture and instill in them the values of kindness, compassion, and Godliness. Her unconditional love served as a guiding light providing strength and support through her life challenges. She was a “bonus mother” to many, opening her kitchen to whoever wanted to come. She always gave and provided without expecting anything in return.
Sandra spent 25 years as an educator at Ector Junior High and in sales for Zales Jewelers. She taught at Ector Jr. High/Middle School, College Prep and she loved and devoted much of her time to her special needs youth, leaving an indelible mark in their hearts and minds. Sandra also worked at Anthony’s Department Store, Everybody’s Grocery Store, and K-Mart. Sandra was a very devoted and dedicated employee throughout her career.
She is proceeded in death by her parents, Willie Holbert Sr & Erie L. Roy; five brothers, Johnny Cobb, Lonnie Roy Sr., Edwin Roy, Donald Holbert, Willie Holbert Jr.; two sisters, Maxine Cobb (Wallace), Luella Johnson, and one granddaughter, Jordyn Carter.
She is survived by her children, Nilandra (Don) Canyon, Dallas Texas, and Joshua (Inisha) Carter, Odessa, Texas. Her grandchildren, Ji’Quest Jackson, Dallas, Texas, Ja’Mari, Jayda, Joshua Jr., Ja’Den, and Journee Carter. Great grandchildren, Khaza & Ji’ Quest Jr. Jackson; Sisters, Gertha (Nancy) Williams, Manervia (Jean) Roy, Eunice (Larry) Vinson, her fur baby, Charley Carter, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, special friends and friends.
During this time of grief, we must not mourn Sandra for she is now living in a constant state of peace, love, and no more pain. We must celebrate her and keep her spirit alive by sharing memories, laughter, hugs, and smiles, and speaking of the impact she had on everyone she came in contact with. Shed a tear now, but also celebrate that she is in the presence of God.
The Bible says:
“If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.” - Romans 14:8
In these final moments, our mom wanted to ensure that her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sisters, family, and friends were taken care of. Mom had a heart of gold, a green thumb, and could cook unlike any other. She will truly be missed!
A special thanks to the doctors and nurses who cared for Mom during her long and hard-fought battle with cancer. And, to all her friends and family who made this difficult time a little easier through your kindness and compassion
A family visitation for Sandra will be held Thursday, August 17, 2023, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home, 601 N Alleghaney Ave., Odessa, Texas 79761. A funeral service will occur Friday, August 18, 2023, at 1:00 PM at Bethlehem Baptist Church, 1000 W Clements St., Odessa, Texas 79763.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hubbardkellyfuneralhome.com for the Carter family.
