Sandra Kay "Sandy" Cooper

1946 - 2025

Sandra Kay "Sandy" Cooper, aged 78, of Bolivar passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, March 28, 2025. Born on Oct. 13, 1946 in Springfield, Sandy was the daughter of Orra S. McKinney and Hazel L. (Viles) McKinney.
She grew up in a loving home, her education began in Halfway and she later graduated from Bolivar High School in the class of 1964.
From an early age, Sandy demonstrated a strong work ethic and a deep sense of care for others - qualities that would define her life and career.
Sandy began her working life at The Penguin Drive-In, a beloved local spot owned by her parents. Her early experiences there instilled in her a love for serving others that never waned.
Over the years , she wore many hats with pride and dedication as a Certified Nurse's Aide and later a Certified Medication Technician. However, her proudest professional achievement came when she completed an online course to become a Certified Dietary Manager, she went on to serve as Dietary Director at Citizens Memorial Healthcare Facility (CNHCF) where her leadership and compassion for her residents left a lasting impression.
Known affectionately as a "Jill of all trades," Sandy's talents extended far beyond her professional roles. She had an extraordinary gift for cooking and baking, one that she shared generously with everyone around her. Whether it was a family gathering or community events, Sandy ensured no one would ever leave hungry.
Her kitchen was always filled with warmth, laughter, the irresistible smell of homemade goodies but most of all love .
Her love for food was only surpassed by her love for Jesus and her family. Saved at a young age, Sandy maintained a close relationship with the Lord throughout her life. Her faith was unwavering and served as the foundation for how she lived, kindly, humbly, and with great devotion to those she loved.
Sandy's legacy lives on through her children Brian R Cooper and life partner Theresea Helms, Shonda Grindstaff and husband Justin Grindstaff, Jr.; granddaughters, Alicia Applegate and husband Dewayne Applegate, and Samantha Maggard and husband Dustin Maggard;
great-grandchildren, Mason Applegate, Madison Applegate, Khloe Maggard, Blake Maggard, and Greyson Maggard; brothers Lyndel McKinney and wife Judy, Myron McKinney and wife Janet.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents Orra S. McKinney and Hazel L. (Viles) McKinney as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins, and many dear friends.
Sandy will be remembered not only for her culinary talents but also for being a friend whose love and loyalty knew no bounds. Her home was always open to everyone, a place where hearts were nourished just as much as stomachs were filled.
A funeral service honoring Sandy's life will be held at Butler Funeral Home in Bolivar on Thursday April 3, at 11 a.m. A visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, April 2, at Butler Funeral Home.
We hope that memories made with Sandy will comfort all who knew and loved her.