Sandra Jean (Ray) Deal

Sandra Jean Deal, age 80 of Granger, went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, July 14, 2021. Sandy was born February 22, 1941, in Barberton, Ohio to the late Gail and Helen (Stonebrook) Ray.  Following her graduation from Kenmore High School, she studied at Hammel-Actual Business College where she learned clerical skills that would help her throughout her entire career.  On April 13, 1968, she married Jimmie L. Deal.  Jimmie preceded her in death, passing away in December of 2007.

She is survived by her loving children Gretchen (Dave) Smith of Granger, Indiana and Jimmie L. (Amy) Deal II of Montana.  Sandy was also known as “Gram” to her three grandchildren whom she loved immensely: Michaela (James) Stogdill, Alexandra Piatt, and Chad Piatt, all of Indiana.  Surviving as well is her sister Gayl (Rob Vajda) Ray of South Carolina. Growing up on a farm, Sandy became very fond of all animals, and she also leaves behind her “Grand-dogs” Molly and Daisy.

Following Sandy’s wishes there will be no formal services.  Her husband Jimmie served honorably during the Vietnam War in the US Air Force, and they will be laid to rest together privately in the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio.

Sandy was employed as a secretary for Attorney Pamer in Akron, Ohio before taking a position with Castle Apartments in Akron where she worked for many years.  After her retirement, she worked part time with the Westside Chiropractic Center in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

In her spare time, Sandy enjoyed volunteering in various capacities with Camp Quality Children’s Cancer Camp, as a reading instructor for children with reading disabilities, the Akron Ohio Police Department, the Special Olympics, and did part time accounting for both the Chapel on Fir Hill and Milestones Church.

Her “green thumb” allowed her to enjoy gardening and arranging flowers and her talent as an artist was unmatched.  She was extremely talented in pencil drawing and painting, she loved to make jewelry and she loved to crochet scarves for those in need.  Sandy also enjoyed doing puzzles and making other crafts.  She never met a stranger and quickly became a friend to all whom she would meet.

Sandy was a loving, generous, patient and kind soul whose sense of humor will never be forgotten.  Most of all, she will be remembered as a wonderful wife, mother and “gram” to her family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Parkview ALS Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana through the link provided below. To light a virtual candle, share a story of Sandy’s life, or leave a message of comfort for her family, please follow the links provided on our tribute wall above.