Sandra Haynes
Love leaves a memory no one can steal.
Obituary
With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Sandra Haynes, who was born on March 30, 1957 and left this earthly realm on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026 in Buffalo Grove, Illinois.
Sandra was born to Leon Mays and Barbara Jean Haynes. She grew up on the west side of Chicago and later became a long-term resident of Rogers Park & Edgewater neighborhoods, and for a brief time, she called Evanston, Illinois home. Sandra would later spend her leisure years in the northern suburbs of Illinois including Gurnee and then Buffalo Grove.
Sandra attended Chicago Public Schools and furthered her education through the City Colleges of Chicago. Sandra received a cosmetology license from Wilfred Beauty Academy. Ever in pursuit of advancing herself and setting new goals, Sandra graduated in 2005 with a Bachelors Degree in Sociology from Northeastern Illinois University as a non-traditional college student.
Sandra‘s career brought her to the U.S. Government in civilian roles with Veterans Affairs, IRS/Taxpayer Service, and the Department of Labor/Bureau of Labor Statistics. She received serval performance recognitions and years of services accolades, retiring after 32 years of service in 2019.
Sandra was a licensed minister and served as a Sunday school teacher and prayer intercessor. She led the prison outreach and shared meals through the warming center while a member of Bethany Baptist Church of Christ. She also served at Oasis Christian Ministries. Sandra made no apologies for loving the Lord with all her heart, soul, and mind.
Sandra's favorite gospel song lyric goes, “...for every mountain He has brought me over, for every trial He has seen me through, for every blessing (Hallelujah), and for this I give Him praise.”
A loving, present, and doting mother to two daughters, Kelly and Krystle, Sandra exemplified a special devotion to this role. Sandra provided an example of black womanhood, beauty, love in action, and strength. A fantastic cook, she shared her love of meal making with her daughters and confidently passed the torch of holiday cooking assignments to the girls.
Sandra was also a proud grandmother–make no mistake about this. Often her opening inquiry after checking on her girls was “where are the boys?” or “what is Kaleb doing?” Sleepovers at grandma’s house were always on deck, and she certainly took an active interest in each of her boys’ lives. Sandra often organized holiday plans and what she deemed as, “Sisters Day.” Attendance at the VARG family reunions was a can’t miss event for her. Sandra was a social butterfly, taking fabulous Caribbean cruises, vacationing in fun locales, and attending ministerial conferences.
Ever the fashionista, Sandra never missed a moment to dress up, and was a jewelry and makeup aficionado. Consistent with her love of beauty, she enjoyed serving as your chosen Avon Lady or Mary Kay beauty consultant. Sandra also loved dining out and, as a Chicago-bred woman, had a deep love for stepping music and dancing.
Whether through work connections, in ministry, among her community, and trusted family members, Sandra was not just someone you grew to know.
She was your friend.
Sandra peacefully transitioned from this earthly life, entering eternal rest and freedom, and soaring into the presence of the Lord.
Sandra is survived by her daughters, Kelly (Tony) Hutchins and Krystle Haynes; grandchildren, Anthony Hutchins, Jr., Andre Hutchins, Aaron Hutchins, and Kaleb Hardy; sisters, Jerris Haynes, Brenda Haynes, Claudette (Gary) Swan, and Beatrice (Elsworth) Jones; brothers, Rory Greene and Leon Mays, Jr.; aunts, Joan Walker, Jennifer Ruffin, and Lisa Marshall; and her career, travel, and life bestie, LaWanda Fitten. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, ministerial colleagues, friends, neighbors, and loved ones.
Sandra was preceded in death by her parents, Leon Mays and Barbara Jean Haynes, and her siblings, Leonora Mays and Lanita Walker.
The passing of Sandra leaves a space that cannot be filled. Yet the memories, lessons, and moments shared will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know Sandra.
Sandra will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
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As a child, I would often go upstairs to spend time with them. Reading her obituary and learning more about her involvement in the church brought back memories I can still attest to from a young age. Auntie Sandra enrolled my little brothers and me in her church’s week-long summer camp. She would take us in the mornings and bring us home each day. That one experience set a precedent for me. I continued attending Chicago Park District summer camps all the way until I started college.
Auntie Sandra had a lasting, positive impact on my life. I will continue to honor her by carrying forward the kindness and light she showed to others.
Rest well, Auntie Sandra. Your life was beautiful, and thank you.
It’s me Joanie your aunt. I’m going to miss the many stories and secrets we shared about life love and family. It’s time for you to rest now but you will always be in the hearts of those who love you. Love you always. Joanie
Love the Hardy Family
Service
We will come together to remember and pay tribute to the wonderful person. While we mourn the loss of our dear, we also aim to cherish the moments shared and the joy brought into our lives.
Your presence would mean a great deal to us during this time of remembrance and reflection.
1225 Elmwood Avenue
Evanston, Illinois 60202
12:00 p.m. - Visitation
1:00 p.m. - Service
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Sandra was deeply grateful for the ongoing kindness and support from the National Kidney Foundation. Their assistance helped ease medication costs and offset other medical expenses. Please consider making a donation to NKF in honor of Sandra..
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