Saundra Farrey

Saundra Lee Marie Farrey, 79, known to most as “Grandma Sandy” of Machesney Park passed away unexpectedly Thursday, April 28, 2016, surrounded by her family. Born August 13, 1936, in Savanna, IL. Married the love of her life who she lovingly and affectionately referred to as “My Jack,” John L. Farrey on July 9, 1955, in Rockford. Saundra and John owned and operated Flowerwood Greenhouses in Machesney Park. While the flowers they grew together made the neighborhood bright and cheerful, it was their love, laughter, and character that made it beautiful. Saundra’s greatest passion in life was being a grandma to all. Grandma Sandy especially enjoyed being a soccer grandma, attending every game she possibly could for over twenty years, both in person and by tuning into online broadcasts. Survivors include children, Tanya (George) Sparkman, Michael Farrey, and Dana Reisel; grandchildren, George (Randi) Sparkman Jr., Rachel (Steve) Sparkman-Quenett and Rebecca Sparkman, Nicole (Andre) Farrey-Chandool, and Brandi Reisel; four great-grandchildren; brother, Jimmy (Carole) Canavan; sister, Gina (Bob) Moseley; several nieces and nephews; step-brother, Gary (Gobbi) Sartwell; half-sister, Toni (Gregg) Hayes; special pet and companion, Big Foot. Predeceased by her husband; mother, Margaret Sartwell; and half-sister, Vicki Weinandt. Grandma Sandy was the most loving, giving person ever. Grandma Sandy’s sweet-hearted, thoughtful, and giving nature instantaneously captured the hearts of everyone. On Thursday, April 28, God looked down and realized He needed a grandma for His angels. Without hesitation, He chose Grandma Sandy.

Service at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, May 5, 2016, in Delehanty Funeral Home, Ltd., 401 River Lane, Loves Park. Entombment in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 4, in the funeral home.