Sandra Kay Gaither

Sandra Kay Gaither, born on June 17, 1953, and embraced by the world until her passing on November 20, 2025, leaves behind a legacy filled with laughter, love, and resilience. With her family by her side, Sandra took her final breath at Baptist Health Floyd, in New Albany, IN., after bravely battling cancer. Her strength during this difficult time was emblematic of the warrior spirit she carried throughout her life.

For twenty years, Sandra dedicated herself professionally at NIBCO in Charlestown, where she demonstrated an unwavering work ethic that mirrored her strong-willed personality. Known for her vibrant smile and passion for capturing moments, she found joy in taking pictures, sharing laughter, and creating cherished memories. Sandra cherished the exhilarating adventures spent four-wheeling and riding motorcycles alongside her beloved husband, Charles "Jr." Gaither. The extraordinary bond of their 30-year marriage was based on laughter, love, and sharing the good times.

At the heart of Sandra's life was her devotion to her family. She was a caring mom who loved her family wholeheartedly, leaving an unforgettable mark on the lives of her children: Douglas and Melissa Coursey, Tabatha Kay Wheeler, James E. Strickland and Lanay Mauller, Jessica and Seth Nease, and Brittany Renee Gaither. Sandra was also blessed with a wonderful mother-in-law, Ruby Simpkins, whom she loved like her own mother. The family matriarch not only cherished her children but also took immense pride in her 19 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, nurturing each with love and joy.

Sandra's legacy is further underscored by the love of her family, which includes her husband Jr, their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, Juanita Strickland, Kimberly Pierce and Gloria Darst along with several nephews. Her spirit will live on within their hearts forever.

Preceding Sandra in death are her parents, Curtis and Norma Hooker; her sister, Karen Hooker; and her brothers, Greg Durham, Billy Ray Durham, and Charles Michael Durham.

A graveside service will be held to honor Sandra's life on Monday, December 8, 2025, beginning at noon at Hibernia Cemetery in Charlestown, IN. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the lasting influence she had on those who were fortunate enough to know her. The Celebration of Life Gathering will begin following the service at the American Legion Post in Charlestown and continue until 6 pm.