JOHNSON, Sandra Kay (Smith) - b. March 20, 1949 - d. October 17, 2017

[patyrn]

Sandra Kay Johnson, age 68, passed away at her home in Howard, Kansas surrounded by her family on October 17, 2017.  She was born Sandra Smith on March 20, 1949 in Urbana Ohio, the daughter of Herman and Augusta (Royce) Smith.

Sandra grew up in a large family which may have accounted for her love of family and being a homemaker the majority of her life.  She was the mainstay, and according to her brother, Jeff, she was more than just a sister as she practically raised him.  On August 15, 1967, she married Gary Lee Johnson in Manistee, Michigan, and they began their life together.  Sandra and Gary became parents to three children, Michael Kelly, Wendy Renee, and Bryan Neal.  Sandra was a great mother and loved cooking and baking, especially cakes, cookies and breads for her family.  It was noted that one year she single-handedly made 17 pies for Thanksgiving.  She also loved to quilt, crochet, and knit and made quilts just to give away to her family.

Once the children had grown and left home, her greatest wish was a go on the road trucking with Gary.  She obtained her CDL and drove a truck for a year.  She loved traveling and had been to every state north, east, west, and south in the United States.  Once her health began failing, she had to cease driving and once again was in the home.

Sandra is survived by her husband, Gary of the home; her children, Michael and wife, Amy of Bear Lake, Michigan,  Wendy of Shelbyville, Tennessee, and Bryan and wife, Sarah of Muskegon, Michigan;  brother, Jeff and Diana Smith of Howard, Kansas, Keith Jones, and Steve Jones; step-sister,  Joetta Simmons; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.  Sandra was predeceased by her parents, Herman and Augusta; her sister, Jessie Svidron; and brothers Bill Smith, Larry Smith, Mike Smith, Neal Smith, and David Smith.

There are no services planned at this time.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.countrysidefh.com.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)