Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Sandy West Obituary
West died Saturday night at a hospice in San Dimas, east of Los Angeles, her manager Mara Fox said. She was diagnosed a year ago.
West was only 16 when she started the Runaways in 1975 with Jett, a singer and guitarist.
Along with band members Lita Ford and Cherie Currie, they had such hits as "Cherry Bomb" and "Born to Be Bad."
"We shared the dream of girls playing rock and roll. Sandy was an exuberant and powerful drummer," Jett said in a statement. "I am overcome from the loss of my friend. I always told her we changed the world."
Born in 1959 and raised in Huntington Beach, California, West was a bona fide California girl, splitting her time between surfing and skiing, Currie said.
After West's grandfather bought her a drum kit, she channeled her athleticism into music.
The Runaways headlined shows with such performers as Cheap Trick and Tom Petty as opening acts.
Following the band's breakup in 1979, West continued to perform as a singer, guitarist and drummer with the Sandy West Band. She also released a solo CD.
"Sandy West loved her fans, her friends and family almost to a fault," Currie said in a statement. "It will never be the same for me again to step on a stage, because Sandy West was the best and I will miss her forever."
West completed her memoirs before she died, and Fox said she hoped to get the book published.
West is survived by her mother, Jeri Williams, stepfather Dick Williams, and six sisters.
A public memorial in Southern California for friends and family is pending, Fox said.
Copyright © 2006 The Associated Press
88 Entries
Abigail Guidry
August 5, 2023
Sandy, you truly inspired me for anything. I miss you. ❤
September 29, 2020
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Latara Johnson
September 15, 2019
Heaven has gained a wonderful angel. I can only imagine hearing the beautiful sounds of your drums playing from the Heavens up above. True talent. Raw true talent... Love you Sandy....
Yvonne de de Palm
October 21, 2018
Forever in my heart R.I.P Sandy
How you can show support
Davin Rush
September 21, 2018
Thank You Sandy for Sharing Your Life and Talent with the World. You and the Runaways truly formed Rock N Roll into what it has become. I Love You and the World Loves You......
March 1, 2018
rest in peace sandy i loved your music from james sturgill harrison ohio
Stephen James Evans
March 30, 2017
Your music has been a part of my life from the first time I heard it way back in 1977 when I was just a lad until this very day.
You were one in a million and I hope that from your place in heaven you could know and appreciate just how much your gift of music has impacted this world and the joy it has brought to so many people of the years.
Although so much time has passed since you left us, please know that you are not forgotten and that you are still in our hearts.
Peace and Grace,
Stephen
October 21, 2016
May fond memories fill the hearts and minds of family and friends.
WC Florida
K S
October 26, 2015
Thought about you today.
RIP
Harry Simpson
October 21, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
paul de boeck
July 21, 2015
pje suis paul de boeck de belgiqeu je suis 2 plus jêunes qeu sandy west
Ma premiere musuc qeu je ecoute qeu je âime cetait schoolday on te radio NED.3 et allor je suis tombé amoureuxe de l'eure music le jour qeu je vois le drummer une fille de mon âge
je etait inpresioné aivais achete toute le album de the runaways
mon favorite etais sandy west the runaways etait de mon temps et jêunes qeu elle repose a pay et je espaire qeu elle avais pas tros le malle qaund elle a quite le monde d'ici
Jo Jo Avallone
December 10, 2014
As a fellow drummer myself I can say nobody rocked her drums like Sandy. She paved the way for us female rock drummers! Sandy,you were the best!!!
cathy wagner
June 28, 2014
Was thinking of you today RIP my friend
Astrid
February 4, 2013
Sandy West is my idol. I'm thirteen years old and I've been a drummer since I was six, and it was listening to The Runaways and watching her play that made me want to be a drummer. She will be so missed, and when she died, a little part of me died with her. Forever remembered <3
Jezzika Jewelz
September 27, 2012
Sandy was an amazing musican. Without her, music wouldn't have gotten as far as it has. I was and still am a huge fan of The Runaways. Their history inspires me to someday get into the music industry and make something of myself. I was deeply hurt when she passed. Because, part of me died as well. She will never be forgotten. Rest In Peace pretty lady! <3 I Love You!!!
September 27, 2012
Sandy West was an amazing musician. Without her, music wouldn't have gone as far as it did. I was and still am a huge fan of the band! Their history inspires me to someday get into the music industry and make something of myself. I was deeply hurt when Sandy passed. Because, a part of me has died as well. Rest In Peace pretty lady <3 I Love You!!!
T B
April 27, 2011
Sandy is such an inspiration and her memory lives on. Hope to some day be able to read her memoirs <3
tip ray
November 12, 2010
Sandy, you are still an inspiration for millions. God Bless.
Ian Roblin
October 8, 2010
A good drummer, a visionary, a role-model for creative girls and such a pretty face.
Ian xxx
Sophia Spoto
July 25, 2010
You're the coolest chick. Thanks for paving the way for the rest of female rock'n'roll!
SONNY JAYMES
July 23, 2010
ROCK N ROLL HALL OF FAME!!!! YOU WILL BE THERE!!! IN OUR HEARTS SANDY!!
Jasmine Shears
July 12, 2010
Sandy was incredibly talented and devoted to her life-drumming. She will forever be remembered as the best female drummer of all time and one of the best drummers ever.
jordan lee
June 16, 2010
sandy was hero all miss you
jordan lee
June 16, 2010
all miss you sandy
Runnaways RockOn
January 15, 2010
Sandy was a great drummer and band mate and I think will missed by all!!!!
Bummmm Bummm CHERRY BOOM!!!!
P.S. Rock on to the heavens
Richard Šimek
November 26, 2009
Allright Sandy West get up and let us go!!!
JIMI TROWELL JR
February 19, 2009
i am 54 yrs old i remeber them back n the 70's when i was in my 20's. the first time i heard of them was on a tv movie. dawn;portial of a teenage runaway. i loved there music ever seath.
Vicki Stearman
January 12, 2009
You are an inspiration.
kathryn p
January 2, 2009
REST IN PEACE
Jan Miller
July 23, 2008
Sandy's loss has been very hard on me. It has taken a long time to write/talk about her. We lived together, and I took care of her. She was a wonderful, sweet, caring, and generous person. Looking into those beautiful blue eyes, was looking into her beautiful soul. She left me with her Chocolate Lab, her hero, CJ. He meant the world to her, and he means the world to me. Sandy always said, "don't stop loving me and CJ the way you do." Sandy, I will never stop.
CJ and
B.C.
May 18, 2008
SANDY, (square)
FROM GRANT STREET, BACK IN 1975,
YOUR PASSING OCT. 21, 2006, TO
THIS DATE... YOU WILL NOT BE
FORGOTTEN.
PAUL DE BOECK
March 3, 2008
DEAR SANDY WEST A VERGOT NEVER THE RUNNAWAYS BUTE WEN A HORE DAT JE LOST THE WORLD A BIN SAID
CHER SANDY WEST JE JAMAIS OUBLIE VOTRE MUSIC JE APPRIS DE AIMEZ LA MUSIC AVEC THE RUNNAWAYS ET AVEC LITA FORD ET TOI SANDY ETAIT MES FAVORITE DANS LE GROUPPE DE THE RUNNAWAYS JE SUIS DE BELGIQEU ET DEPUIS QEU JE CONNAIT QEU VOUS AVAIS QITTé LE MONDE JE SUIS TRES TRISTE MAIS CE ALLAH QUI TE REPRAND JE ESPAIRE QEU VOUS ALLES ETRE PRES DE ALLAH DANS MON MAC TOUTE LE FHOTO DE TOI ET LE RESTE DU GROUPPE JE MIE COMME ARRIEREPLAN QEU JE TE VOIS TOUJOUR QAUND JE ALUME LE MACINTOCH G.4 pour jamais vous oublie
JEWELS CARMELO
June 8, 2007
ME AND SANDY DID A SHOW TOGETHER with 3000 on the grass that is something i will always hold that day close to me thanks sandy for sharing your music with me
always jewels from BLUE JEWELS
YVONNE DELATORRE
May 6, 2007
SANDY,
THANK YOU FOR CARRYING MY SUITCASE IN THE HOUSE FOR ME, YOU WERE ABOVE THE REST, WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU,
Ilka
April 28, 2007
Liebe Familie West,
ich möchte Ihnen mein tiefes Mitgefühl zum Tode Sandy's aussprechen. Ich habe erst diese Woche von Sandy's Kampf gegen die schwere Krankheit und Ihren Tod erfahren.
Sandy, mach es gut. Schlafe sanft, ich denke an dich.
Ich wünsche der Familie West und allen Ihren Freunden Kraft mit diesen schweren Verlust leben zu können.
Schlafe in Frieden, Sandy
Ilka , Castrop, Germany
Ljbrockson
April 2, 2007
I was saddened to hear of the loss of Sandy West. My heart goes out to her family and friends. Sandy and the Runaways changed my life as a teenager and gave me an outlet when my homelife was abusive. Their music impowered me and inspired me to pursue a career in music, which was one of the only things that gave me self esteem during those years. Rock on Sandy...where ever you are and thanks for giving a sad teen something to live for.
Melanie La Pan
March 31, 2007
The Runaways shaped my teenage years and gave me some of my best memories. I am and will always be grateful to these gals for teaching me to be myself, be bold and to rock on like no boys ever could!
You were beautiful, talented and
the best drummer in rock n' roll history. Rock on "Queen of Noise"
and Rock in Peace!
Kat Beckesh
January 27, 2007
You made the Runaways,too bad they couldnt give you 1 last tour....now The Runaways'' will never be..rock on Sandy.iM a guitarist/singer also influed by Suzi and to the fans out there let's make a runaway tribute band.in Sanndy's honnor,nobody else wanted to.....Rock on girl and thank you
JIM MEAD
January 21, 2007
I AM DEVISTATED TO LEARN OF SANDY'S PASSING, IVE BEEN A HUGE RUNAWAYS FAN FOR THE PAST COUPLE OF YEARS, AND HOPED FOR A REUNION TOUR, I KNOW SANDY WANTED THAT. FOR A GRUOP THAT DISBANDED A QUARTER CENTURY AGO, IT ONLY DIED A FEW SHORT MONTHS AGO...REST IN PEACE, SANDY...WE WILL MISS YOU
Norah Fowler
November 15, 2006
I loved The Runaways from thier very first lp. 1976. I really thought this is a great group of all girls playing Rock 'N' Roll. It made so many other girls to follow right along. After the group broke-up I lost track of most of them. BUT THEY WERE NEVER FORGOTTEN. Sandy was a great drummer I always wanted to play the drummers like her. She will be missed. I always thought someday soon there would of been a Runaway's Reunion. Rest In Piece Sandy. Your Memory Lives On.
Lisa Guerra
October 30, 2006
I was on the Joan Jett website and was very shocked to read of the passing of Sandy West. I didn't know she ill. My condolences to her family and former bandmates. I am very sorry she's gone. God bless her. She was a great drummer and person. The first famouse rock and roll drummer... She was an inspiration to wanna-be female rockers everywhere. She will be missed. Thank you, Sandy.
Bobbi Groves
October 27, 2006
My deepest sympathies to Sandy's Mom, sisters all other family and friends, I was so blessed as to know Sandy as a personal friend, and she was the sweetest kindest person ever, but she likely got alot of her sweetness from her Mom, who is an amazing lady God Be With You All, I hope and pray that you do find the time to print her memoirs as their are many of us who are so wanting to read them, thank-you for sharing this amazing lady with all of us, now God is looking after her so she can hurt no more and we all have a special "Angel" looking over all of us, Sandy you are missed so very much, gone but never ever will you be forgotten, always and forever, love Bobbi
ira martens
October 27, 2006
hello, i am a female 42 years old fan from germany.
last week i found out that there is a dvd of the runaways. i bought it, and i was very happy because i havent ever seen them playing. it was so great. and sandy talked so passionately about her time in the band. and 2 days later i saw the news of her death in the internet. i was so shocked!!!!
now i'm watching the dvd again and again. to see her beeing so happy to play and to live.
my regards to her family
ira
tim henslee
October 27, 2006
my first real rock and roll record was "waiting for the night". i'm 46 now and one of the reasons i picked up a guitar and have enjoyed music is due to the runaways and sandy west.thank you for sharing her with us.heaven became a brighter place when she entered it.
Elliott Mednick
October 26, 2006
To the Family of Sandy West,
So Sorry for Your Great Loss. I loved the Runaways. Born to be Bad was a Big Hit with Joan Jett. Such a Tragedy, Rock On,
Elliott Mednick
theresa
October 26, 2006
Those American Nights at the Whiskey were all we desired, and now remember in light of the sad loss of our sister Sandy.
RIP, Wild Thing -- you deserve it.
Debra Casey
October 26, 2006
Sandy,, I first met you and the Runaways back in Orlando in the 70's and I wondered"Where does she get all that energy?" You inspired me to join a band and I played for more than 20 years.What a LIFE! Your beautiful spirit will always live on.Peace
Sandy West Leary
October 26, 2006
As you can imagine, the notice of Ms. West's passing in The Charlotte Observer caught my eye. Although I don't remember The Runaways, from others remembrances I have read, Sandy must have been a unique person. I offer my sincere condolences to all the West family.
JOE
October 26, 2006
I am sorry to hear about Sandy! I have to say I did have I believe three of the runnaway albums. She will be missed. my prayers go out to her and her family
Teresa
October 26, 2006
I am sorry for your loss, Sandy is an Angel in Heaven watching over you.
Kim
October 26, 2006
My heart goes out to the family of Ms West. Please know that she is loved and honored by many who were touched by the happiness she has brought to all of those around her.
Keala Ramos
October 25, 2006
I am sorry for this loss to the West family as well as the world of music. Sandy was underrated like so many other women but she was a hero to folks like myself that took the time to research, read, listen and watch Sandy's brilliance. I started a Runaways cover band a couple years ago and turned some of my fellow musicians onto the Runaways. After seeing Edgeplay we wanted to get a copy of our performances to Sandy but we never got it to her in time. I feel compelled to bring the band back in time for Sandy to watch from above. Thank you Sandy. We love you.
Cyndi
October 25, 2006
I was very sorry to hear that Sandy passed away, she was definitely too young. I really loved the Runaways as I was growing up (I am in their age group). My sincerest sympathy to Sandy's family. May she Rest in Peace.
Steve Crothers
October 25, 2006
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of Sandy's family. I knew Sandy from High School and hung with alot of the same people. Sandy was an awesome person and I will always remember her spirit and talent. Sandy we will all miss you very much, be at peace and know that all your friends past and present long for the day we get to see you play once again.
Steve Barton
October 25, 2006
Sandy and the Runaways were a tremendous influence on me from 1977 to date. I am still a fan. I am grateful for all the records and concerts I enjoyed from Sandy and the band. I will never forget your talent and spririt. THANK YOU SANDY!! -Steve Barton
Roxy Carmichael-Hart
October 25, 2006
I want to express my condolences to Sandy's family and friends. She and the Runaways fought all of the odds and they stood strong and paved the way for so many female musicians. They all paid the price for being trailblazers and now perhaps Sandy has paid the highest price of all. We will keep her memory alive, with rock in our hearts. Rock on girlfriend, for eternity!.
Roxy
Carol Gualtieri
October 25, 2006
My deepest sympathies to Sandy's mom and her whole family. My heart, as well as many others is broken because of her loss. Sandy has been my inspiration. While playing my drums, her photo is right above my drum kit. I had the the absolute pleasure of meeting and hanging out with Sandy a few times while I lived in CA. She was an awesome person and will be missed dearly.
Graham Anderson
October 25, 2006
I am very sorry for your loss. Sandy's music was a big part of my life and I'll always be grateful to her. She was far too young to leave us, though she will always be with us through her music. Rest in peace, Sandy.
Patsy Jo Reed Sircy
October 25, 2006
Very sorry about your loss! Sincere sympathy to family and friends, fans who loved her. PJ - music lover and retired nurse
Matthew Z
October 24, 2006
West family please accept my condolences for the loss of your daughter. I didn't know your daughter and rarely listened to the Runaway's music, although when I did they were rocking.
I couldn't help but look into Sandy's eyes (picture in article) and read the kind, loving words shared about Sandy, to only think of my own three daughters-Sophie in particular.
Sophie decided to take up the percussions for her grade school band, as we always mentioned to her that she is "marching to the beat of a different drummer". I can't help but think, as I see the light of life illuminating from Sandy's smile, that she too marched to the beat of a different drummer, perhaps even the same drummer Sophie hears.
As the father of Sophie, I can only encourage all you daughters out there to truly embrace GIRL POWER. When you march to the beat of the different drummer, march as Sandy and the girls did - WITH YOUR HEAD HELD HIGH!
Perhaps one day there may even be a "Runaway's Collection" of American Girl Dolls. Sandy's drum kit will be sold seperately. LOL, we have to laugh at times like these.
Dear West family, Joan, Cherie, and Lita (in reality she had 8 sisters)my prayers go out to you and please share as many wacky Sandy stories as possible. I will be sure to introduce Sophie to Sandy, so please consider publishing the memoirs.
God Bless,
Matt in IL - a father of three daughters, all marching to the beat of different drummers.
Phillip Swain Adams
October 24, 2006
I remember the Runaways in the 70's , See I'm 47 also and always been into Rock'n'Roll! I had pin-ups and posters of the Runaways in my room as a teen and I thought they all were BEUTIFUL GIRLS and very Impressed with their music! To Sandy's Family My thougt's and Prayers! May God Bless You All !!!! I lossed My Daughter Misty Feb. this year to an accident,She was only 26 so I can understand !! Phil a FAN !!!
Kenneth Brownwell
October 24, 2006
to the West Family my sincere and deepest condolenses to you and your loved ones. I remember the group the Runaways and they they really knew how to rock in the 70's. I will miss Sandy cuz when i would listen to the Runaways and I really liked the way she played the drums and I myself started to play drums and Guitar in the late 70's. God Bless to you all in the West Family
Ginger Davis
October 24, 2006
To the family of Ms. West -
I am an inspired female drummer/musician. Drummers often march in the background, but have the biggest hearts and absolute dedication to the groove then any others could ever understand. Cheers to Sandy and our continued prayers to you as we acknowledge God's promise to all mankind - [God] will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away."—Revelation 21:4.
S. Holloway
October 24, 2006
The Runaways were such an inspiration to me so I was deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Sandy. My sympathies to all who loved her. Our loss is heaven's gain. Rock on Sandy!!!
Shantell Waldo
October 24, 2006
Thanks for the inspiration, and thanks for helping a little girl find her true love...Drumming
Rest in peace Sandy
Charlie Cardillo
October 24, 2006
Sandy you were part of history that will never be forgotten. At a time when most females were content with doing the sappy expected thing, you, Jett,Currie and Ford broke the doors wide open for all women not just in music but in other ventures as well.
LONG LIVE THE RUNAWAYS
gail
October 24, 2006
Oh Sandy! Thanks for those memories I had all but forgotten. A street urchen in the 70's,sleeping on the floor of my Sister's Apt. & listening to your music. I'll have to pull out your music for a small memorial,huh! You & the girls rocked!
Gladys Demson
October 24, 2006
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2006
October 24, 2006
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2006
October 24, 2006
To Sandy Wests Family & Friends:
Sorry to hear about your loss, but as Sandy now joins the Heavenly Skies may she be the lead Drummer amongst the Angels.
Godspeed
MASSACHUSETTS
Donna DaValt
October 24, 2006
She might be gone but her memories will live on forever in her music and fans. God Speed
A fan in Chandler Oklahoma
Vicki Previte
October 24, 2006
Sandy it was great back in the day...I am a Newport Beach girl so i remembet the times. Sure will miss ya Sandy. Remember Blackey's bar on th e beach? Good Times. You will be missed forever in our hearts.
[email protected]
Linn Carter
October 24, 2006
ONE DAY GOD WILL DO AWAY WITH THE PAIN WE HAVE WHEN WE HAVE TO MOURN THE ONES WE LOVE. MAY THE WEST FAMILY BE COMFORTED BY THAT PROMISE AND BE STRENGTHENED BY ONE ANOTHER IN THE DAYS TO COME.
Donna
October 24, 2006
I am so sorry for your loss. God bless yor family
Earl
October 24, 2006
Sorry to hear of your loss. Sandy will always be remembered. A Fan in Wisconsin
Shawn & Yolanda Wetzel
October 24, 2006
Our condolences to Sandy's family.
Ernie
October 24, 2006
I met Sandy in Cleveland Ohio around 1975. They (The Runaways) had a gig somewhere in town- I think the Agora, so me and my friends (all boys around the same age as them) took advantage of the opportunity to find out where they were staying, which we did and to give them a copy of our 1st.just recorded tape of our band. They took it,and what a pleasure to meet them! Especially Sandy!! I was the drummer by-the way and Sandy gave me a "Good Vibe" in persuing a music carreer which I did. Anyway,in a very nice manner after we gave them the tape,,,,,,,, they kicked us out. But! From one drummer to another Thank you Sandy!! just for being nice
Karen
October 24, 2006
So talented.
So young.
So sad.
So sorry...
She took time to write memoirs.
Hope her family takes time to publish her wishes.
Respectfully,
Denise Ozburn
October 24, 2006
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2006
Norma Blackshear
October 24, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
donna
October 24, 2006
my sympathy to family and friends.
Don Thompson
October 24, 2006
The world of rock and the world in general, was a better place because of you Sandy West.
Showing 1 - 88 of 88 results
Make a Donation
in Sandy West's name
How to support Sandy's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Sandy West's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored