Sandra Gail Hartley

Sandra Gail Hartley, a beacon of generosity and the epitome of a caregiver, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2025, in Columbus, Georgia, at the age of 81. Born on September 22, 1943, in Tampa, Florida, Sandra was the cherished eldest daughter of Roy and Elma Miller Handel, who preceded her in death. Her life was a testament to her enduring spirit and her unwavering commitment to her family and community.

A proud 1961 graduate of Columbus High School, Sandra continued her education at the Medical Center School of Nursing, where she graduated in 1966. Her passion for helping others led her to a dedicated career in nursing. She went on to get certified in gerontological nursing, where she was only one of two people certified in the state of Georgia. Sandra's professional journey was marked by her tenure as the Director of Nursing and Assistant Administrator of Muscogee Manor. Her leadership and compassion were further exemplified when she was part of the opening team of Heritage Hills, where Sandra was Administrator before her well-deserved retirement.

Sandra's life was filled with love and laughter, shared with her beloved husband of 63 years Bobby Hartley Sr., and their three sons, Bobby Lee Hartley Jr. (Lisa), Jeffery Scott Hartley (Edye), and William Roy Hartley. She was the treasured grandmother to five grandchildren—Brandon Hartley, Jennifer Hartley, Kaitlin Hartley, Alainey Hall, and Katherine Hall—and the adored great-grandmother to Eliza and Ezra Berrios. Her love and guidance also extended to her three siblings, Gloria Handel, Lonnie Handel, and Julene Buice as well as her cousin, Marsha Wheatley, who will dearly miss her presence.

Sandra's life was a living example of the Biblical principle, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." As the backbone of her family, she was always present—whether walking in the garden, spending time with her dog John Boy, sharing her wisdom, or volunteering her time. Her role as a caregiver was not confined to her profession; she was the heart of her family, ensuring her brothers and sisters were well cared for from a young age.

Her commitment to service was evident through her involvement with Wynnbrook Baptist Church, where she was not only a member but a dedicated volunteer at Wynnbrook Christian School. Her faith was as much a part of her as her breath, and she lived it out through acts of kindness and charity.

As we prepare to celebrate Sandra's life at a memorial service on July 27, 2025, at 3 PM EST at Wynnbrook Baptist Church, we remember a woman whose generosity knew no bounds. Sandra's legacy is one that will continue to inspire and influence all who were blessed to know her. Her gentle spirit, her nurturing love, and her tireless dedication to those around her will forever be etched in the hearts of her family, friends, and the countless lives she touched.

We extend our deepest thanks and sincere appreciation to the staff and congregation of Wynnbrook Baptist Church, along with the devoted team at Georgia Hospice Care. In the midst of such a challenging time, your kindness, commitment, and steadfast support have brought comfort and strength to our family. Your care has left a lasting mark on our hearts, and we will always remember the difference you made.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the ALS Association at ALS.org. Your support will help accelerate new treatments, optimize current care, and reduce the harms of ALS.

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