Sandra Lee Hinzman

Promotion To Glory

Sandra L. Hinzman (Barnes), 79, of Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, was Promoted to Glory on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. She was born on October 16, 1946 in Beaver Falls, PA, the beloved daughter of the late Benjamin & Earla Mae Barnes. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 35 years, Thomas J. Hinzman in 2000; brother, Jim Bosworth; and sisters Dori Calvin and Diane McCullough.

Sandra found her greatest joy in her family, whom she cherished deeply. She is survived by her loving children, Timothy and Christine Hinzman (Franklin PA), Thomas L. and Susan Hinzman (Lancaster, PA) and Brandon and Bridgette Hinzman (Beaver Falls, PA); her grandchildren, Jeremy, Nathaniel, Brennen, Christopher, Jonathon, Bailey & Braden; and her 11 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Jane Bonazza.

Sandra lived a life deeply rooted in faith, love, and service. A devoted and faithful member (Sr. Soldier) of The Salvation Army in Beaver Falls, she gave countless years of dedicated ministry to her church and community. She faithfully served in many leadership roles, including Sunday School Teacher, Young People’s Sergeant Major (YPSM), Home League/Women’s Ministries Secretary, League of Mercy Secretary and Sunbeam Leader. She was especially passionate about helping those in need through The Salvation Army Soup Kitchen, where her kindness, generosity, and willingness to serve made a lasting impact on many lives. Sandra quietly exemplified the spirit of giving, never seeking recognition but always offering help where it was needed most.

Her greatest joy in life was serving the Lord by serving others, while faithfully loving and leading her family. Sandra’s life reflected Christ’s love in action—she gave freely, served humbly, and uplifted everyone she encountered.

In recognition of her faithful service and devotion to her family, Sandra was honored in 1988 as The Salvation Army Eastern Territorial Silver Star Mother at the 1988 Congress by General Eva Burrows. She was later named Woman of the Year by The Salvation Army Western Pennsylvania Division, a testament to the lasting impact she made through her compassion and leadership.

Sandra was known to many simply and lovingly as “Aunt Sandy.” Through the years, countless individuals she taught, mentored, and cared for came to call her by that name. In her later years, it was not uncommon to hear “Aunt Sandy!” called out from across the aisles of a Walmart or at local and divisional Salvation Army gatherings. She became everyone’s Aunt Sandy—embracing others as family regardless of their background or circumstances—and she loved each person deeply and genuinely. This was how God used her life to touch so many: through a boundless, welcoming love that made everyone feel they belonged.

She was loved and adored by everyone, because she first loved and adored them.

Visitation is from 4:00-6:00 on Monday, May 11 and 10:00-12:00 on Tuesday, May 12 at Saul-Gabauer Funeral Home, 273 PA-68, Rochester, PA 15074, followed immediately by a Service at 12:00 PM – with Major Charles Kelly officiating. Family and friends are invited to come together to share memories and celebrate her remarkable life. Interment at Sylvania Hills will follow for immediate family.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to The Salvation Army in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, in Sandra’s memory—continuing the ministry she so faithfully supported.

Sandra’s legacy of faith, love, and service will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.