Sandra Lynne Day

Sandra Day's strength, courage and determination were admirable and she taught her children these qualities through her own actions. Sandra had room in her heart for everyone, stranger or friend. She devoted herself to her love of nature and her compassion for others, especially her grandchildren. A very spiritual woman, prayer was her lifeline throughout her 61 years, a lifeline she shared with all those around her. In 1945, the world was still embroiled in the events of World War II. Under Hitler's command, the German Army persecuted many different groups, one of these being the Jehovah's Witnesses. Yet in spite of this terrible discrimination, its membership had almost tripled by 1945. Sandra Lynne Day, born on January 12, 1945, would embrace this faith, a faith that would sustain her throughout her adult life. William and Delores (Graham) Meyers were living in Muskegon, Michigan in 1945. William worked as an electrician and Delores was a nurse. Together they were raising their four children. On January 12, 1945, Delores gave birth to their fifth child, a pretty baby girl they named Sandra Lynne. Being the baby of the family, Sandra was not only spoiled by her parents, but by her older siblings Bertine, William Jr., and Howard. Another brother, David, died at age two, before Sandra was born. Surrounded by such a loving family, Sandra always felt a great sense of stability growing up, and Bertine, who was 15 years older, was like a second mother. Sandra was something of a tomboy growing up. She loved being outside, especially if she could spend time with her father. It was from him that she developed her love of gardening and other outdoor activities. She also had a mischievous side, and one day had great fun writing on a neighbor's house with a chunk of coal. But even as a child, Sandra was very nurturing and spiritual, characteristics she had learned from her mother. When one of her cousins pushed in her doll's eye, she was devastated. Her mother gently and lovingly explained to her that her beloved doll would be taken to the doll hospital to be made well. This deep concern made a lasting impression on the young girl. Sandra found her lifelong passion at the young age of four. When her mother introduced her to the world of dance, her life would forever be molded. She fell in love with dance forms, especially tap and jazz, and also became a Majorette during high school. She danced professionally until she was married. In 1963, Sandra delighted her family by being the first to graduate from high school. She was a member of the class of 1963 and her proud father offered to put her through Law School. However, Sandra decided to get married instead, and in 1964 she married Larry K. Day. Her father remarked that no matter what happened, she would always be a Meyers. Although Sandra's marriage eventually ended in divorce, she was blessed with three wonderful children. Steven was born in 1966, Shannon in 1967 and Samuel in 1975. But perhaps the most life-changing event in Sandra's life came in 1971. This was the year she was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses. Sandra came to know that the hope of resurrection was real, a hope that enabled her to finally accept her mother's death. Delores had died in 1967 and it had been a devastating and overwhelming time in Sandra's life. Her newly found faith gave her the strength she needed and prayer became a part of her daily life. Sandra loved her children and with Bible in hand, worked hard to instill the moral values and lessons of compassion she held so dear. She felt it was important for her children to know themselves before they started looking for a mate. When they did find that special someone, Sandra warmly welcomed each one. The outdoors had always been a special place for Sandra, and using the skills her father taught her, she gardened with a passion. Blessed with a green thumb, she had no difficulty growing just about anything. The cold winter months were hard for Sandra, but she welcomed the bright days of spring with open arms. It truly was the time of resurrection and rebirth. Sandra had worked as a secretary until she finally realized that she did not want to spend her life seated behind a desk. So in 1976, she started her own cleaning business. In 2000, her daughter Shannon took over the business, but Sandra was still there when needed. Her desire was to "pull her own weight" and stay independent as long as possible. She looked forward to family get-togethers for they gave her a chance to spoil her family with her delicious cooking. Even when she was suffering from terrible back pain, she put a smile on her face. In 2001, Sandra was dealt another blow when her sister Bertine died. Sandra had been able to count on her sister no matter what, and thought she would "always be there". It was a terrible loss. But joy arrived in the form of Madison, her first grandchild. Madison's parents were Sandra's son Samuel and his wife Amanda. Her heart soared whenever she heard that small voice call her "Beanba". It was heartbreaking when back problems prevented her from lifting her second grandchild, Samuel, Jr. During the past three years of her life, however, she was overjoyed with the addition of Cerise. Cerise had a special nickname for her; she called her, "Grammy." Sandra was very determined to do whatever she set her heart on. However, as time went on, she found herself caught up in a vicious cycle of back pain, diabetes and medication. Even during her last family dinner, although she was in tremendous pain, she maintained her warm smile. One of her greatest joys during this time was watching her family and listening to their conversations. Sadly, she passed away from a heart attack after going through back surgery. Although she will be deeply missed, Sandra Lynne Day's legacy of love and spirituality leaves her loved ones with cherished memories and a strong foundation to look to for comfort. This is one of her favorite quotes from the first issue of the Watchtower in 1879 . . . "Courage . . . my Christian brother or sister, seeking with weary step to run the narrow way. Heed not the rugged course; it is all hallowed and sanctified by the blessed feet of the Master. Count every thorn a flower; every sharp rock a milestone, hurrying you onward to the goal. Keep your eye fixed on the prize."