Sandra L. Kearbey, 70, of Alton, passed away on Sunday, October 27, 2024.
She was born on September 5, 1954, in Alton, IL, the daughter of Jackson S. "J.S." and Deloris M. (Perkinson) Holland. She married David L. Kearbey on May 15, 1980, in Alton, IL. He preceded her in death on May 26, 2020.
Sandra enjoyed cooking and baking, but more so, enjoyed spending time with her friends and family, especially her grandchildren, who were so special to her. She would always tell them they were her sunshine, she would sing or hum the song to them. Holly, her daughter, was also singing it while holding her hand at the end, when Sandra earned her angel wings.
Sandra considered so many of her grandson Cade's friend's children, her own grandchildren. They called her Nana Kearbey, and they all have so many great memorable stories and moments with her.
Sandra never met a stranger, and made so many people happy and feel loved, just being in their presence. She will be greatly missed by all family and friends. They all said she was one of a kind. She loved everyone, and everyone loved her. Two of her favorite phrases to say to others were "I love you more" and "I love you to the moon and back".
She loved to look for clovers in the yard, and including her grandkids in the hunt is now a tradition she passed on to her family, as they will continue to go on "clover hunts" and think of her.
Sandra's husband, David, owned Kearbey Trucking. Because of that ownership, all of the trucking companies had many drivers that became her family as well. The time with them was so special that they spent with their "trucking family."
Survivors include her children, Holly Kearbey of Bethalto, and Ric Kearbey of Florida; a brother, Eric (Beth) Holland of Troy, MO; a sister-in-law, Mary Durham of Alton; six grandchildren, Cade Foster, Elleya Haycraft, Emily Kearbey, Alex Kearbey, Kyleigh Kearbey, and Duke Kearbey; a great-grandson, John Skender; as well as several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.
Along with her father and husband, David, she was preceded in death by a brother, Randy Eugene Holland.
Inurnment will take place at a later date at Valhalla Memorial Park in Godfrey. Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto assisted the family with final resting wishes. The family will host a celebration of life at a later date.
Memorials are suggested to her daughter, Holly Kearbey.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
