Sandra Ann Hendrick

Sandra Ann Hendrick, lovingly known as "Sandy," passed away at home on February 19, 2026, from complications of Alzheimer's Disease. She was 79 years old.

Sandra was born Sandra Ann Smith on September 16, 1946, in Bloomington, Illinois, to Robert and Loretta Smith. At just six months of age, her family moved to San Juan, Texas, where she was raised alongside her older brother, Robert Smith, Jr. She grew up in the First United Methodist Church in San Juan, where her faith and devotion to family first took root.

On February 18, 1961, at the age of 14, Sandra went on her first date with a young man from Alamo, Texas - Larry Hendrick. That date marked the beginning of a love story that would span 65 years. After seven years of courtship, they were married on November 24, 1967. They remained faithfully married for 58 years, building a life centered on love, devotion, and family.

Sandra graduated from PSJA High School in 1964 and from Pan American College (now UTRGV) in 1968. In September of that same year, she began what would become a remarkable 41-year career as a teacher and coach in the PSJA Independent School District. She influenced generations of students, not only through education and athletics but through her steadfast example of discipline, kindness, and dedication.

In 1976, Sandra and Larry moved to McAllen, Texas, where they raised their three sons. Her greatest joy in life was her family. She poured her heart into her role as wife, mother, and grandmother. Known affectionately as "Grandma" or "Gram," she cherished her three sons, nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. She delighted in baking, playing with her children and grandchildren, working on paintings and arts and crafts, and simply being present with those she loved. She always gave everything to her family and never asked for anything in return.

Sandra was a longtime member of First Christian Church in McAllen and later became a member of First United Methodist Church. She was deeply involved in her community, serving as an active member of Beta Sigma Phi Service Sorority, multiple McAllen ISD Sports Booster Clubs, and the Women's Fireman Auxiliary.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Larry Hendrick; her sons Brian Hendrick of Harlingen, Texas; Brett Hendrick of San Antonio, Texas; and Blaine Hendrick of McAllen, Texas; her nine grandchildren Dillon Hendrick, Corban Hendrick, Shelbie Hendrick, Walberto Zavala, Talon Hendrick, Terra Hendrick, Orson Hendrick, Reece Hendrick, and Deacon Hendrick; her great-grandchildren Aria, Oliver, and Calvin; and her brother, Robert Smith, Jr.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her memory to the Cure Alzheimer's Fund at www.curealz.org

In one final act of generosity and selflessness, Sandra donated her body to the Glenn Biggs Institute of Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases at UT Health San Antonio, hoping to contribute to research that may one day spare other families from this disease.

She will always be greatly loved, cherished and deeply missed. May God shine His light and love upon her the way she so brightly lit up all of our lives.