SANDRA JO (WELLS) WELSH
1938-2017
Sandra Jo (Wells) Welsh was released from her earthly body on September 11, 2017 at her home in LaGrange Texas.
Sandra was born September 30, 1938 in Henderson, Texas to William Stone “Red” Wells and Rebecca Craig Wells. The Wells family soon moved to Houston but always maintained close ties to their East Texas roots. Sandra grew up in Houston along with older brother Billy and younger sister Mary Ethel. In 1956, she graduated from Lamar High School. Following in her father’s footsteps, Sandra attended Baylor University where she developed a lifelong love for the institution. Sandra married Gerry McCann in 1958 and together they had two daughters, Sandra Delyse Jaeger and Kelley Wells Keen. Sandra later met her partner in life and devoted husband of 42 years, Sam C. Welsh. They married in 1975 and together made their home at 9406 Bob White in Houston Texas - the setting for so many warm and precious memories of holidays, celebrations, impromptu gatherings and the occasional hat party with cherished friends and family.
With the arrival of grandchildren, Sandra became “MiMi”, and in 2006 Sam and Sandra moved closer to their grandkids, making their new home in LaGrange, Texas. Her grandchildren were her life’s joy and absolute treasure; her “sweetness in life”.
Sandra had a compassionate heart for all animals and spent many hours as a volunteer at the Houston SPCA and Houston Humane Society. She continued giving of her time and heart in LaGrange, volunteering with the Round Top-Carmine Elementary Library and St. Marks Hospital. Additionally, Sandra was a member of the Second Baptist Church in LaGrange, enjoyed tennis and bowling, loved Elvis Presley, Baylor football, books, music, dancing, antiquing, and her many adventures with Sam.
Sandra was the embodiment of beauty, love and laughter. Her radiant green eyes, often sparkling with mischief, were a window into her extraordinary heart. She was a steadfast and loyal friend. Her many close and lifelong relationships are a testament to the Christ-like love she exemplified. She was a true best friend and constant support to her daughters, and she was always first to share burdens and celebrate joy in the lives of others. Sandra left her mark on everyone she encountered. Her generous spirit, selfless love, hospitality, compassion, humility and empathy remind us of all that has true value in this world. Her lightning quick wit, legendary April Fool’s jokes, silly dances, funny faces, clever nicknames, tender heart and contageous snort remind us to cultivate joy in life.
Sandra is preceded in death by her mother, Rebecca “MeeMaw” Craig Wells; father, William Stone “Red” Wells and brother, William E. “Billy” Wells. She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 42 years, Sam C. Welsh; beloved sister and friend Mary Wells Campbell, daughters Kelley Wells Keen, Sandra Delyse Jaeger and husband James, Gaye Lynn Mackie and husband Thomas, Victoria Welsh Poe; grandchildren and lights of her life Garett Jaeger, Alley Keen, Sam Mackie, Landry Mackie, Jackson Poe, Madelyn Poe, Averi Keen and Tanner Keen; precious nieces and nephews, Craig Wells, Wynde Stinson, Wesley Wells, Leigh Porter and their families; numerous cousins, extended family and treasured friends.
Sandra’s lengthy illness, like all aspects of her life, served to enlarge the circle of people whose lives she touched and who in turn, adored her. The family wishes to acknowledge the exceptional care and compassion shown to all of us by Brazos Valley Hospice, Compassionate Care Providers of LaGrange, Dr. Wess Blackwell, Dr. Thomas Borgstedte, Baylor College of Medicine, friends and neighbors. We gratefully acknowledge the loving care of Loralee Farmer, Taneisha Hancock, Amanda Ulrich, JoAnn Jones, Laura Rosas, Debbie Zigal and Connie Reyes, all of whom so tenderly shared in this final journey.
A memorial service, celebrating Sandra’s life will be held at 1:00 pm Saturday, October 21st, at the historic chapel on the grounds of Round Top Festival Institute.
Donations in Sandra’s memory may be made to Brazos Valley Hospice, The Bugle Boy Foundation / Swan Songs Program, Alzheimer’s research or an animal shelter of your choice.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Koenig & Strickland Funeral Home 208 W. Pearl, La Grange, Texas. Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www. lagrangefunerals.com.