Mary Sandefer

Mary Louise Barbee Sandefer passed away at her family home in Amarillo, Texas, on April 21, 2025. Mary was born on January 9, 1936, to Georgia Merl Gray and Frank James Barbee, in Anadarko, Oklahoma. The family moved to Oregon and to Texas before finally settling in Portales, NM, with her 11 siblings. She attended high school in Portales, where she met her lifelong companion of 71 years, Richard Carlton Sandefer.

She was a devout Christian, wife, and mother. She lived a life of self-sufficiency, always finding alternatives to acquire what was needed. Whether she was whipping up culinary Cowboy cookin’ during roundups, or taking care of the children, Mary never sat idle.

In her earlier years, she played in volleyball tournaments as well as enjoyed bowling. Later in life, she loved to garden, spend time with family, listen to music and dance in the wee hours of the morning while enjoying a good cup of coffee.

She will be remembered by her witty banter, and her laugh that would instantly bring a smile to your face and lift your spirits.

Mary leaves behind 5 children: Kay Stringfield, Carl Sandefer, Daryl Sandefer, Clifford Sandefer, and Wendell Sandefer and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was 89 years young and will always be remembered by the people whose lives that she touched.

The family will have a Celebration of Life gathering on Saturday, July 5th in Amarillo, details forthcoming.