Lt. Sandy Girdner

It is with heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Lt. Sandy Girdner, age 65, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma on August 4, 2025, in Hackett, Arkansas. Sandy’s life was a testament to dedication and service, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Sandy was born on October 30, 1959, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, to Flairie Belle (Turner) Smith and R.B. Smith. She spent a fulfilling and commendable 28-years as a law enforcement officer with the Sallisaw Police Department, where she achieved the rank of Lieutenant. Her commitment to her community and her profession left an indelible mark on the lives she touched.

Sandy is survived by her two loving daughters, Stephanie Smith of Muldrow, OK, and Amy Ruggles and Zack, of Hackett, AR. She was a proud grandmother to eight grandchildren: Ethan Barnes, Bronson Barnes and Savannah, Ashlyn Eberley and Kaylee, Blayn Smith, Aspyn Smith, Aubree Ruggles, Lukas Ruggles and Autumn Ruggles, as well as one great-grandchild, Bronny.

Sandy leaves behind three devoted sisters, Linda Newberry of Sallisaw, OK, Cheryl Riggs and Don, of Sallisaw, OK, and Kathy Johnson and Dale, of Hackett, AR. She is also survived by her brother, Rick Smith of Pocola, OK, along with nieces and nephews: Joey Ross, Michael Don Riggs, James Riggs, Brandon Smith, Madison Findley, and her special niece and caregiver, Lisa Hardwick.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Mike Schaefer.

The funeral service will take place at 10:00 AM on Friday, August 8, 2025, at the Agent Mallory Martin Chapel in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, followed by burial at Buffington Cemetery, under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.

Active pallbearers will include John Owens, John Weber, Larry Blount, Beau Gabbert, Dennis Neff, Tucker Martens, Cindy Smith, Dennis Brewer, and Larry Lane. The honorary pallbearers will be past members of the Sallisaw Fraternal Order of Police, along with the officers with whom she worked and held dear.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during the viewing available on Thursday, August 7, from 10 AM to 8 PM at Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Home in Sallisaw, where the family will greet visitors from 6 PM to 8 PM.

Sandy’s unwavering spirit, her love for others, and her commitment to service will forever remain in the hearts of those she has left behind.