God looked around His garden
And found an empty place.
He then looked down upon the earth
And saw your tired face.
He put His arms around you
And lifted you to rest.
God's garden must be beautiful
He always takes the best.
He saw the road was getting rough
And the hills were hard to climb,
So He closed your weary eyelids
And whispered "Peace be thine."
It broke our hearts to lose you
But you didn't go alone,
For part of us went with you
The day God called you home.
Obituary
Sandra Jean Henry, known for her unwavering devotion to her family, culinary creations and green thumb, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on April 15, 2024. She was born on February 15, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, to Edmond and Jean Strach, both of Polish descent, and was the second of three children, with an older brother Robert and a younger sister Diane.
Sandra attended Catholic schools throughout her childhood and graduated from a women’s Catholic high school in Chicago. She excelled academically and had an eye for detail that extended to her impeccable fashion sense, which remained a constant throughout her life.
Her love for the performing arts including dance, was evident during her high school years as she participated in theatrical productions and dance routines.
After graduation, Sandra worked as a legal secretary at Central States Motor Freight Bureau in Chicago, where she met her future husband, Darryl Henry. They married on September 18, 1965, at St. Ferdinand’s Church in Chicago, and celebrated nearly 60 years of marriage and welcoming three children: Darren in 1966, Melanie in 1969, and Damian in 1972. Tragically, their son Kevin passed away at birth.
The family later moved to California when Darryl accepted a promotion with Johnson & Johnson in 1969, but Sandra's love for the West Coast led them to make it their permanent home. They settled in Placentia, where Sandra continued to nurture her family and pursued her passions for cooking, gardening, traveling, and shopping. She also endeavored further in her love of education and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Women’s Studies from California State University, Fullerton, in 2001.
Despite enduring health challenges, including a leukemia diagnosis in 2010 and subsequent complications, Sandra exemplified resilience. She refused to let her illness hinder her zest for life, cherishing moments with her family, especially never missing significant occasions with her grandchildren. Sandra continued to embrace her passions, from traveling to indulging in shopping, cherishing each experience to the fullest.
Her legacy is a testament to love and dedication, leaving an everlasting impact on her family and everyone fortunate enough to have known her.
Sandra is survived by her devoted husband Darryl, children Darren (Kelly), Melanie (Chuck), and Damian (Jenny), sister Diane, brother Robert, and grandsons Declan and Connor.
A graveside service honoring Sandra's life will be held on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 1 p.m. at Loma Vista Memorial Park in Fullerton, California, followed by a reception at Sandra and Darryl’s home. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers support for a Memorial Plaque in Sandra's honor through the Providence St. Jude Memorial Foundation.
Click here to donate
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I can attest to the great cook she was having brought home take home food after many visits to the house.
She gave the gift of her through her food and wonderful garden which now becomes some sort of a memorial garden. The garden is rightfully placed in the background with her in this memorial.
Godspeed and condolences,
Brad Sambrano
Ray & Judy
Connie, John, Tim, Kevn and Sophie Doyle
Love,
Yerem and Suzie Yeghiazarians
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Service
We invite you to join us in a celebration of life as we come together to pay tribute to the life of our beloved Sandra J. Henry.
Your presence would mean a great deal to us as we remember and honor the legacy of a remarkable friend, wife, mother.
In this moment of remembrance, let us come together to share our fond memories, offer our support to one another, and bid farewell to a truly exceptional individual.
Please join us in commemorating Sandra's life and the positive impact she had on all of us.
Celebration of Life event immediately following service.
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On April 15th 2024 Sandra suffered an extensive stroke. The family followed her medical directives and wishes with comfort/care/hospice. She passed away peacefully surrounded by her family.
We would like to honor Sandra with a Memorial plaque to be placed at St. Jude Hospital as a reminder to all the physicians and medical staff that they make a difference in every patient they care for and their families.
Flowers are beautiful but not long lasting. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers the support for the Memorial Plaque in Sandra's name. Use the DONATE link to the Providence St. Jude Memorial Foundation to make the donation. The process is fast, easy and secure. Thanks so much for your support.
Click here to donate
