Sandra Jo "Sandy" Leach

Sandra Jo Leach, of Mesa, AZ, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025. Born on August 16, 1948, in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, Sandy lived a vibrant life filled with adventure, creativity, and a youthful spirit that never faded. In fact, she was shocked to realize just this year that she was a senior citizen and had been for 12 years-a testament to her boundless energy and zest for life. Sandy spent over 30 years in Minneapolis, where she and her husband, Wayne Leach, whom she was married to for more than 30 years until his passing in 2001, raised two daughters. While Sandy worked as a hairdresser, her true passions lay in sewing and crafting, where she poured her heart into creating beautiful, handmade treasures. Over 20 years ago, she moved to Arizona, where she embraced year-round sunshine and a new chapter of adventures. Never one to shy away from a challenge, she once made headlines at her last job by helping catch a thief-a story that perfectly captured her spirited and determined nature. Sandy's love for shopping and travel took her to many places, with a special place in her heart for Hawaii, where she soaked up the island's beauty and aloha spirit on many visits. Her appreciation for the finer things-like the elegance of a grand piano, the sleek power of an IROC Camaro, and the free-spirited rumble of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle-reflected her bold and vibrant personality. She also enjoyed the thrill of playing cards and the competitive spirit of tennis, adding to her lively character. Sandy's open heart and infectious enthusiasm allowed her to easily make friends, and she always cherished the Arizona AA family for both friendships and support. Sandy was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne Leach, and her parents, Bob and JoAnn Protz. She leaves behind her loving daughters, Marley (Bob) and Michelle Leach; her great-grandsons, Beau and Gabe Lee; and her beloved siblings, Patti (Fred) Irvin, Kate Ryan, and Mike Protz. Her warmth, humor, and knack for making everyone feel like family will be deeply missed. A celebration of Sandy's life will be held on Friday, October 3 at 1 PM at the Mountain View Funeral Home and Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and honor the woman who meant so much to so many. Though our hearts ache in her absence, we are forever grateful for the gift of her life, her love, and the memories she leaves behind. Sandy will be deeply missed but never forgotten. In lieu of flowers the family would like donations to be sent The Salvation Army or a charity of your choice.