Sandra Lee Obituary

Sandra Jean Lee was born on October 6, 1955 in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. She attended elementary and Middle school in Minneapolis, Minnesota and senior high school in McCandless Township, Pennsylvania. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in modern languages at Loyola University in Chicago, graduating on the Dean's List. She taught German for a short time at the Moody Bible Institute Evening School.
At the age of ten years she was diagnosed as suffering from a rare muscle calcification condition called Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) which eventually confined her to her bed from 1983 to her recent death.
Multiple are the written testimonies that we have received from across the country in recent days testifying to the inspiration Sandi was in the way she responded to her handicapped condition. Her selflessness was evidenced to the very end when at the hospital she said to her parents and sister "Don't feel sorry for me." Sandi knew and believed the promise in God's word that "to depart and be with Christ is far better." (Philippians 1:23)
Sandi is survived by her parents, DuWayne and Jean, sisters Vickie Olson and Brenda Cobbs, Brenda's husband Rev. Steven Cobbs, and five nieces and nephews, Derek, Angela, Devin, Taylor and Kianna.
"Blessed are those who die in the Lord." (Revelation 14:13)
If you would like to make a contribution in Sandi's memory, make your check out to International FOP Association and mail it to P.O. Box 196217, Winter Springs, FL 32719-6217.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Daily Press on Dec. 8, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Sandra Lee

9 Entries

Pud Rowan

December 2, 2023

Sandra's selfless life in Christ continues as an inspiration to me. I fondly remember her participation in the Bethany Baptist Youth group. She would come out and support our fledgling "Bethany Baboons" flag football team with cheers from the sidelines. Even when I visited her in a Chicago hospital, when she had every reason to be depressed and feel defeated, she was the one to encourage me in my relationship with God. I take hope that she is now part of the "cloud of witnesses", who we will once again be reunited in a new heaven and new Earth. Thanks be to God

Edie Piper

June 8, 2011

I remember Sandi when she was born. She was a beautiful baby and a smart and capable child. Sandi was the flower girl at our wedding. We remember when Sandi’s condition became a wonderment to the family as well as to the doctors. Through her family and church, Sandi grow spiritually and was truly an inspiration to all who came to know her.

… those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31

Edie and Mike Piper
Northfield, MN

Tannie Woods Eshenaur

January 5, 2011

Sandy was a wise and patient influence in my early walk with Jesus. At the time, Sandy was just one of our youth group gang, but now as an adult I realize how she daily overcame and experienced victory in spite of physical challenges. So wonderful to think of her now, walking with Jesus. May the God of all comfort be near to you in your loss, Tannie

Dana (Pud) Rowan

December 30, 2010

I will always remember Sandi for the saint that she was and is. I drew closer to God because of her ministry and inspiration while I was in the Bethany Baptist Youth Group. I visited her later in Chicago and remember her great love for our Lord and selfless love for others. I thank our Lord for her life. I too pray for Pastor and Mrs. Lee that the God of Comfort and Peace will shower you with both.

Maranatha Christian. Until we meet again.

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Dana Pierson

December 30, 2010

Pastor and Mrs. Lee:
I don't know if you will remember me but I became a Christian under your ministry at Bethany Baptist Church. I, too, am sorry to learn of this news but so happy that Sandi is now enjoying her new PERFECT body. She was a tremendous friend in our Youth Group days. I am praying that God will comfort you until you see her again. Much love, Dana (Pavelick) Pierson.

Bob McKenna

December 29, 2010

Our own dear saint Sandy is now free from her amazing heroic journey. I don't believe I will ever meet someone so full of God's grace and love. She was a mentor to me. We will all miss her so much but are also comforted that she is freed from her broken body and can walk, run, and dance again! The Lee family has lived the faith so amazingly. God peace and the hope of heaven fill your minds and hearts. Much care and love, ~Bob McKenna

Teri Nelson

December 14, 2010

I have thanked God countless times over the years for my friend Sandi Lee and her wonderful parents. Though I had not seen Sandi for many years, I consider her one of the best friends I have ever had, and certainly the most inspirational. I will always remember with awe and gladness the time we spent together in the 70s and 80s, and how she lived life to the fullest despite her devastating condition. As I wrote the other day on my blog at prayncrochet.blogspot.com, whenever I am tempted to complain about temporary ailments or everyday annoyances, I will think of my friend and the optimism she showed while being unable to do things most of us take for granted. RIP, my friend, till we meet again in heaven, when you will have your new body and, at last, be able to move freely. I love you. Teri

Steve Cobbs

December 8, 2010

Sandi will be remembered for her gracious spirit and determined faith. She knew that no matter what happened with a body plagued by FOP, that Jesus was in control of her life. She never worried about herself and passed on an enthusiasm to any who have ever had the chance to meet her. She will be missed, but glory to God for providing an eternal home!

Steve Cobbs

December 8, 2010

Sandi was a wonderful person who didn't live her life as a person with a disability. Having FOP only kept her body from moving, but her mind and spirit were always looking for ways to help and love others. She will be remembered for her faith and her determination. Thank you Jesus for holding her close!

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