Sandra Sue Howe, known lovingly to most as Sandy, left this world on October 16, 2025.  She was a remarkable woman whose life was defined by strength, resilience, and compassion. Born on March 7, 1938, in her grandparents’ home in Manilla, Indiana, she revealed her courage early in life when, at just sixteen, she stood up to a bully to bring peace and safety to her family. This fierce display of love and protection became a hallmark of her character throughout her life.

In 1956, Sandy married George J. Howe, a U.S. Marine, embodying the virtues of a military wife: patience, resilience, and adaptability. Through frequent moves, long separations, and the uncertainty of a combat tour, she provided unwavering emotional support and stability to her children, becoming the cornerstone of her family. Her strength gave her husband the peace of mind to serve with dedication, knowing she upheld their home with grace and purpose.

After relocating to Muncie, Sandy transformed her extraordinary compassion into a career in social work. She walked alongside clients during their most difficult moments, offering emotional support with genuine understanding and a heart free of prejudice or judgment. Her ability to embrace each person’s unique story with respect made her work more than a profession; it was a calling she fulfilled with kindness, touching countless lives with her unconditional acceptance.

Above all, Sandy was a beloved mother to Deborah, Jeffrey (Brenda), and Cynthia; a cherished grandmother to Jeffrey, Stephen, and Brian Jewell; Kristina and Jason Howe; Christopher Frantz and TJ Taylor; and a proud great-grandmother to Lillian Jewell and Colibrianna Drake; Jaelon and Aleesia Stanley; Aeryn and Cairo Howe; Geordan, Braedon, and Kaden Frantz. She was also a great-great-grandmother to Kyia Frantz, all of whom she showered with love. Her family also included the many friends of her children, whom she welcomed and loved as her own.

She was preceded in death by her husband George Howe; daughter Deborah; parents Robert Kennedy and Lois Shewmaker; stepfather Delbert Shewmaker; brother Stephen Kennedy; sisters-in-law Barbara Kennedy and Ann Kersey; and grandsons Stephen, Brian, and Jeffrey.

Sandy’s legacy is one of love, strength, and humanity. To have been her child was to be blessed with unfailing understanding, encouragement, and wisdom. She inspired many through her quiet example, teaching that true strength is found in kindness, that love is life’s greatest gift, and that family is the most valuable legacy one can leave. Her memory will forever be a guiding light for all who were fortunate enough to call her Mom.

Funeral services will be held at Parson Mortuary, 801 W. Adams Street, Muncie, Indiana, on October 24, 2025, at 12:00 PM.  Visitation will be from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM on the day of the service.  Burial will follow at Arlington East Hill Cemetery, west of Rushville, Indiana.