Sandra Jean Mills

Sandra Jean Mills, 70, had her passport stamped for the last time on April 2, 2014. She will be dearly missed by her husband of 50 years, Jerry. She leaves behind her sister Norma McCrary, brother James (Stella) Burdette, Sister-in-Law Shirley Mills, many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father and mother, Lonzo and Vera Burdette; sister Delores Greene and brothers-in-law, Robert Mills and Jim McCrary.

Sandy was employed by Bridgestone/Firestone for 35 years and sometimes she even worked there! She loved to travel and visited many places throughout the world. She loved all sports and was an avid skier, scuba diver, and enjoyed rollerblading, biking and golf. She was fortunate to attend both the Summer and Winter Olympics and more than once. She loved going to Indians' baseball games. She often commented she couldn't have a "bucket list" because she did and accomplished everything she ever wanted to do.

Sandy was a member of many organizations; including book clubs (she didn't like to read); a cooking club (she didn't like to cook); the Cleveland Yacht Club (she owned a power boat); the Goodyear Ski Club (she did like to ski); the Friendship Force; and ILR through Baldwin Wallace College, to name a few. She volunteered at the Haven of Rest and other places that provided help to those less fortunate than herself. All you had to do was invite Sandy to be a part of your group or to help out and she was there!

Sandy's family would like to express our sincere thanks to all the Health Care Professionals at the Cleveland Clinic, Akron General Hospital and the Hospice Center on Ridgewood Road for the care and compassion they gave to her which helped her battle her illness with dignity.

Sandy's last request is that we all remember her as we gathered when celebrating her 70th birthday in July 2013. The joy and love that she received on that special day, including the cards from those who weren't able to attend, the re-telling of stories, the laughter of her family and friends, is the only memorial that she wanted. Sandy loved life and did things her own way and with flare.

Please don't send flowers or plants. Instead pay it forward; take advantage of opportunities that are presented to you and give of your time to help others. Or make a donation to your favorite charity in Sandy's memory; also send your favorite "Sandy Stories" to caringbridge.org/visit/sandymills.

Think of Sandy as your journey continues. We are all better people for having known her.