Sandra Mary Cory

Sandra Mary Cory, lovingly known as Sandy, left us on January 2, 2025. Though she was small in stature, she was mighty in spirit.  She was a compassionate and devout Catholic. Sandy’s love for her family was paramount; she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, teacher and catechist.

She was a dedicated preschool teacher whose impact on the lives of her students and their families spanned over 25 years. She had a heart full of compassion and a deep commitment to her faith. That commitment continued to grow when fellow parishioner Cathy Folmsbee introduced the Catechesis of the Good Shepard at Christ the King Parish. With the help of Susan Dolan and Sandy the program flourished and continues today. 

Born on March 15, 1944, in Oklahoma City, her educational journey began at John Carroll Primary School and continued through Bishop McGuinness High School, Saint Mary's University, and ultimately, she earned her Master's degree in Early Childhood Development from the University of Central Oklahoma.

Sandy is survived by her husband, Joseph Cory; her children, Joe Cory and his wife Jane, Bill Cory and his wife Kasey, and John Cory and his wife Heather. She was a cherished grandmother to Stephen, Katherine, Emily, Sarah, Madelyn, Joey, and Andrew Cory. Additionally, she is remembered by her sisters, Ruth Roland, Sue Clifford, and Alice Ziegler, and many loving nieces and nephews (Mary, David, Julia, and Steve Clifford, Mike and Randy Roland, Sister Mary Beata, Laura Schawe, Ellen Weiner, and Brian Ziegler, and Lisa and Brad Poarch).  She was preceded in death by her parents, David and Virginia Russell.

Sandy found joy in watching birds from her back window, cheering on the OKC Thunder, sewing, baking, and, most importantly, spending time with her grandchildren. These activities not only reflected her nurturing spirit but also her desire to create lasting memories with her loved ones.

Her last few months were spent in a loving and caring environment at Heaven House. The family want to thank all the staff that took such great care of her there. 

A prayer service will be held on January 7, 2025, at 6:00 PM at May Ave - Smith & Kernke Funeral Homes. A funeral Mass will be held at Christ the King Catholic Church on January 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Reception to follow.

Sandy's legacy of kindness, dedication to education, and deep family bonds will continue to resonate within the hearts of all who knew her. Even at the end, she had a glowing smile that could light up a room. She will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.

In Lieu of flowers, the family would ask that donations be made in Sandy’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association to continue the research for a cure.