Sandra Kay Friesland

Sandra “Sandy” Kay Friesland was born on March 11, 1947, in Amarillo, Texas. She passed peacefully from this world on February 10, 2025, at the age of 77, following a battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Known affectionately as “Nana” by her grandchildren, Sandy was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, Ted Friesland; her parents, A.C. Cockrell and Louise Cockrell; her in-laws, Worth and Gearleen Friesland; her brother-in-law, Bob Havers; and her precious granddaughter, Trinity Elisabeth Oden.

She is survived by her son, Craig Friesland, and his wife, Misti, of Lucas, Texas, along with their children, Major, Reagan, Colt, and Paxton. She is also survived by her daughter, Becky Oden, and her husband, J.T., of Murphy, Texas, and their sons, Isaac, Jack, and Trip. She leaves behind three siblings, Glenn Cockrell, and his wife, Joyce, of Amarillo, Texas; JoAnn Bowles, and her husband, Charles, of Rowlett, Texas; and Ruth Havers of Goodyear, Arizona.

Sandy grew up in Pantex Village, Texas, and graduated from Panhandle High School. She met the love of her life, Ted, while he was serving in the United States Air Force at the Amarillo Air Base. After getting married, they briefly lived in Dallas before settling in Amarillo, where they made their home for over 30 years. Sandy embraced being a mom and homemaker. Once her children were older, she went back to work serving as the church secretary at San Jacinto Church of Christ for many years.

Sandy was a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. She loved serving others, adored her grandchildren, and above all, she loved the Lord. For as long as anyone can remember, she volunteered at church teaching Sunday school, girls’ Bible classes, and Vacation Bible School. Back in the day, Sandy also coached some really good Bible Bowl teams.

Over 22 years ago, Sandy and Ted relocated from their long-time home in Amarillo to be closer to their grandchildren, whom they adored. She enjoyed watching them play football, basketball, lacrosse, volleyball, t-ball, baseball, and participate in all sorts of school activities. Nana and Papaw rarely missed an opportunity to support their grandkids.

Sandy was a devoted wife, mother, Nana, sister, friend, teacher, but above all, she was a faithful Christian. While she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing she is now with Jesus and reunited with Papaw.