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Sandra Kay Sanford
1949 - 2025
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Sandra Sanford Obituary
"SANDY"
February 5, 1949 – October 18, 2025
Sandra "Sandy" Kay Sanford went to be with her Savior on October 18, 2025, while scuba diving and traveling abroad. Born to loving parents Carl and Pearl Sanford, Sandy and her sister Cheryl were raised in Bakersfield. She graduated from East Bakersfield High School in 1967, attended Bakersfield College (1969), continued her studies at Chico State (1971), and earned a Master's degree from Bethel Seminary West.
Sandy dedicated much of her professional life to ministry, including significant roles at First Presbyterian Church in San Diego and International Christian Ministries in Bakersfield. Her commitment to supporting orphans globally – most notably through Great Mercy Orphanage in Kenya, Africa – was central to her ministry and life. She generously welcomed international students, facilitated contemplative prayer groups, taught enneagram classes, led book clubs, and hosted many in her unique home, reflecting her nurturing spirit. Sandy is remembered as a cherished friend, sister, aunt, writer, mentor, photographer, and educator.
Known for her adventurous spirit and ability to foster deep connections, Sandy had friends worldwide. Her enthusiasm, creativity, and vibrant nature leave a legacy among family and friends. Sandy loved people, God's Word, and His world.
A Celebration of Life service will take place on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Bakersfield, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to Great Mercy Orphanage through International Christian Ministries at www.ICMUSA.org.
www.bakersfield.com/obits
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Memorial Events
for Sandra Sanford
Memories and Condolences
for Sandra Sanford
Sponsored by Basham Funeral Care - Bakersfield.
6 Entries
Larry Dillard
November 26, 2025
RIP, bless family and friends
COYANTUTSE Denis
November 25, 2025
Condoleance à la famille de Sandy Sanford. Chère Sandy, tu as été une image innoubliable à ma famille. Nous te manquons énormement, mais tu resteras éternellement dans mon esprit. Merci de ton aide à l'ICM Tororo. Que ton âme repose en paix et que Dieu t'accueille dans son repos éternel.
Famille du Pasteur COYANTUTSE Denis au Burundi.
Pasteur NDAGIJIMANA
November 25, 2025
Dear Sandra, the love you showed to humanity thru helping the world yo come to Christ will su
rerly be rewarded by our Lord Jesus! Your dedication to Burundian ministry in Lukole refugee camp where we met for the first time, the your effort to come for ministry in BURUNDI which was my turning point into serving God, your support to me to get a bible training ta ICM Tororo, your welcoming me in bakersfield when I visited USA back in June2010, etc are evidence ms of such great love that I would never forget.
RIP dear Sandy
(Rev. Pasteur NDAGIJIMANA, Muyinga, Burundi tel +25769116365)
Rose Ambuka
November 25, 2025
Rose Ambuka
November 25, 2025
To be with the Lord is gain. We loved you so much and you will greatly be missed.
CHARLES MURIUKI
November 25, 2025
Sandy´s life work cannot be described on a text. Her loving memories will forever be inscribed in our hearts. Her smile and and laughter echoes again and again in my mind. Truly an angels has left us. Glad she is home with our father. Africa will miss you Sandy
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