It is with deep sorrow we announce the passing of Mrs. Sandra "Sandy" Watts, a beacon of kindness and generosity. Born on October 23, 1935, age 89, Sandy left us peacefully on February 20, 2024, after many years of congestive heart failure. She is remembered fondly for her warmth, infectious giggle and her ever-present consideration for others.

Sandy was born to the late Doratha Webster and Clarence Kelley. She was raised in Long Beach, CA by her mother Doratha "Joie" and Grandmother, Gertrude Webster, after her father devastatingly died when Sandy was just 3. Her maternal Grandfather, Edwin, had also passed in 1939 and it was her 2 Uncles, Frank and Zeb Webster, who doted on her and gave her the love and attention that she was missing from her father and grandfather. 

They were a very close family and enjoyed spending time together at The Pike on the shore of Long Beach. Sandy lived through the Great Depression and World War II. 

She was a proud alumna of Brethren High School, Long Beach, CA, Class of 1953. Sandy was well-known and is remembered by her fellow alumni for her heartwarming personality, kind spirit and involvement in many student body activities such as Commissioner of Girl's Athletics, Glee Club, Cheer leader and Historian Club. 

She was a highly accomplished figure skater, and later in life she would dazzle the family ice skating together at her home on Lake Cocolalla. She was a skilled slalom water-skier, which deserves special praise since she never learned how to swim. She was a natural green thumb and loved growing and tending to her vast amounts of gorgeous flowers. As the family Matriarch she would host family gatherings and cook up a feast. She enjoyed baking delicious treats (mile high lemon merengue pie and cinnamon rolls) and feeding others. She had a talent for creating beautifully warm and inviting homes and decorating them for holidays for all to enjoy. Her signature Christmas tradition was to create a decorative mini village that would rival the Matterhorn. As she said, "the more white Christmas snow fluff, the better." 

She preferred rustic, cozy decor and loved living by the Lake in her log cabin with her husband of 57 years, Doug. She enjoyed sitting outside with him watching the Deer and little animals that would visit them. She loved to watch the snow fall and sit by the fireplace. She was known to pour maple syrup on pretty much anything she ate and enjoyed having two sips of a Margarita (while giggling). Coffee and conversation made her happy. She often made people belly laugh along with her when she would confuse words and say hilarious things such as "l like to sit and watch the Chippendales (dancing men) running around on the deck", of course meaning to say "Chipmunks". These mishaps were so endearing and part of Sandy's beautiful personality. She always kept her childlike innocence.

In her 20's she had a successful modelling career that later evolved into teaching etiquette, confidence and poise in her deportment class. She also worked at the Clark County District Attorneys office in Las Vegas, NV., was an assistant teacher at Southside Christian School, was a tax specialist at H & R Block and lastly worked as a legal secretary for a Californian law firm. She was indeed multitalented.

Sandy is survived by the love of her life, Doug Watts, her children Randy Ross, Bob Ross, Brad Bryars, Kellie Harcourt, 1 son in law, Kristian Harcourt, 2 daughters in law, Anne Ross and Robyn McNall Ross, 16 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren and 4 great great grandchildren, and finally, her dearly loved dogs Muffin and Zoe. Sandy's memory will continue to live on in all their hearts. Sadly, she was predeceased by her son, Kyal Watts, grandson Remi Harcourt, and great grandson Tyler Vierra. We trust they are reunited in peace.

One of the greatest joys in Sandy's life was being a hands-on dedicated mother and raising her five children, Randy, Bob, Brad, Kyal and Kellie. She was supportive of their dreams, hobbies and aspirations. Her legacy of love and kindness will continue to touch the lives of people she met. Sandy was a woman of great resilience, often advising to take life one day at a time. She reassured those around her during difficult times with her favourite saying, "this too shall pass".

Sandy's lifelong devotion to her faith gave her great comfort and always lifted her spirit, especially being part of her church congregation full of friends. She knew without a doubt she would be going to Heaven and Heaven knows how lucky it is to have her home. 

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honour Sandy's memory may contribute to either the "Bonner General Hospital Foundation" (where her name will join other loved one's names on the Wall of Remembrance) or "Hospice of Yuma". Donations can be made to these organizations through the following website https://everloved.com/life-of…

Sandy was a beloved member of our community will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts. As we navigate this difficult time, let us remember her advice and trust that during this difficult time, "this too shall pass". 

Our thoughts are with her family, to whom she was a pillar of strength and love.

A memorial will be held on 1st of October at 2pm, The Healing Garden, 600 N 3rd Ave, Sandpoint.

Forever loved and missed.

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