Obituary of Sandra Lee Phillips
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Sandra Lee Phillips “Sandy”
July 14, 1960 - January 26, 2025
Sandra Lee Phillips, known affectionately by friends and family as Sandy, passed away peacefully on January 26, 2025, in Midland, Michigan where she spent her final days surrounded by the warmth and comfort of her family after a brief but courageous fight with cancer.
Sandy was born on July 14, 1960, in Dearborn, Michigan to Kathryn Ann Hirth (Therrian, Franzosi) and the late Patrick Alvin Therrian. From a young age, her radiant spirit and kind heart made a lasting impression, earning her a reputation for her generosity and warmth.
As a proud graduate of Divine Child High School in Dearborn, Michigan, Class of 1978, Sandy established the foundation for a life devoted to dedication and service to others. On November 23, 1979, she married Michael Martin, with whom she had two children, Nicole and Ryan. Above all, Sandy cherished her role as a mother. Her children were the light of her life, and she took immense pride in their every accomplishment. She opened her heart to their friends as if they were her own, always offering a listening ear, wise advice, and unconditional support. Whether celebrating joys or comforting during tough times, she created a space where everyone felt welcome, valued, and loved. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth, where laughter was shared and bonds were strengthened. Through her love, guidance, and unwavering support, she instilled in them the same values of kindness, love, and generosity that defined her life.
On April 3, 1994, Sandy married her late husband, William Phillips, known to most as “Bill”. Following Bill’s retirement, Sandy’s love of warm weather and the peace and happiness she found at the water’s edge, led them to relocate to Florida where she and Bill would then call home. Over the years, they created lasting friendships and memories within their community, and Sandy faced multiple hurricanes head-on with the same resilience and strength, some may say stubbornness, that defined her.
Sandy had a deep love for the arts, particularly musicals and theatre where she found great pleasure in the stories and melodies that graced the stage. She was an avid reader, always with a book or tablet in hand, and there was never a Sudoku, Crosswords, or Word Search book too far out of reach. Her enthusiasm for baking competition shows was matched only by her love for baking and cooking and she took immense pleasure in preparing delicious meals and treats for her loved ones and friends. A true sports enthusiast, Sandy reveled in the excitement of the game. Watching games and energetically shouting at the TV during pivotal plays was a ritual her family will recall fondly for years to come. She also enjoyed the challenges of puzzles and loved when completing a puzzle became a family activity.
Her role as 'Nona' to Jayden and Dylan was one she cherished deeply. Sandy’s love for her grandchildren knew no bounds, and nothing brought her more joy than spending time with them, watching them grow, and showering them with affection. She delighted in spoiling them with special treats, surprises, and endless love. To her, being Nona wasn’t just a title - it was the heart of her world, and she took great pride in being a constant presence in their lives, offering guidance, warmth, and an abundance of fond memories.
The light of Sandy's life was her family, whom she loved with all her heart. Sandy is survived by her devoted mother, Kathryn Hirth; her children, Nicole (Chris) Stabeno and Ryan (Jessica) Martin; her beloved grandchildren, Jayden and Dylan Martin; her siblings, Matt (Dru) Therrian, Vicki (Al) Naubert, Cindy (Larry) Litwin, Debbie (Ralph) Gesell, and Christine (Jim) Sachs. Sandy was a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She also leaves behind her loyal service dog, Shadow (“Pup-Pup”) who was her constant companion and never left her side. Sandy was preceded in death by her stepfather, Lee William Hirth, whose memory she held dear.
A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Country Church, 6805 Mast Rd, Dexter, MI 48130. A visitation will be held prior to the service from 10:00am - 11:00am to allow family and friends to gather and pay their respects.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to express their sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to Cancer Services of Midland. To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.
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