Sandra L. Sanders

Sandra Lee (“Sandy”) Sanders passed away peacefully at home on January 17, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Sandy was born on April 16, 1946 and raised in Topeka, Kansas by her late parents, Edward H. and Sylvia A. (Moss) Schmitt.

Sandy graduated from Topeka West High School in 1964. In those days, she enjoyed driving her 1959 Ford Galaxie 500 to the popular hangout Allen’s Drive-In, and she shared fond memories of working for The Palace and shopping at the Crosby Bros. department store.

Sandy spent several years raising her two daughters and as they grew in age and independence, she found fulfilling work with the Menninger Foundation. There she wore many hats, serving as a Records and Research Assistant, Audio/Visual Technician, and Manager of the Foundation's bookstore.

Her retirement allowed her to spend time tending her lawn and gardens. She loved to garden and always planted flower beds around her home, including beautiful peonies. A dog lover, she always had a pet dog of known or unknown breed to look after and spoil. She took daily walks to Crestview and Shunga parks with her dogs, the last of which being her beloved and spirited Pug, Sophie. Colorado was her favorite vacation destination, enjoying several trips there with family throughout her life.

Sandy’s favorite occasions took place during the holidays, particularly Thanksgiving, as she delighted in spending that time with her daughters’ families and her lifelong friends. Every visit was festive in décor, dress and homemade holiday snacks, candies and desserts, and she gave the most thoughtful gifts to all of her loved ones.

Sandy is survived by her children Jennifer Sanders Kellogg of Lenexa, Kansas and Brenda and husband David Recob of Topeka, Kansas; and grandchildren Jack and Lydia Kellogg, and Benjamin, Nate, and Trey Recob. She will be dearly missed by them and all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on February 7, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Southwest Chapel, located at 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd, Topeka, KS. In her honor, memorial contributions can be made to Helping Hands Humane Society, 5720 SW 21st Street, Topeka, KS 66604; or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

To leave a message for her family online, please visit the guestbook below.