Sandra Lynn "Strickland" Howard

Sandra Lynn Howard, affectionately known to all as Sandy, peacefully passed away at her cherished home in Creede, Colorado, on the 11th of January, 2026. Born in Alamosa, Colorado on the 26th of January, 1940, to proud parents Homer and Jane (Foster) Strickland, Sandy's warmth and generosity of spirit brightened the lives of all who knew her.

Sandy's journey through life was one marked by enduring love and companionship. She was in the same kindergarten class as her future husband, John Howard, in Monte Vista public schools, igniting a lifelong bond of love and friendship. Their childhood acquaintance blossomed into true love, leading them to wed a year after high school and later solemnize their union for all time in the Logan, Utah Temple. Together, they navigated the joys and challenges of life, Side by side for an admirable 66 years.

Blessed with an entrepreneurial spirit, Sandy and John owned and operated several veterinary clinics across various Colorado towns and even in Gallup, New Mexico. Passionate about her work, Sandy was instrumental in the success of their practices, handling the day-to-day operations with the same care and attention she bestowed upon the countless animals she adored.

A true daughter of the San Luis Valley, Sandy's early years in Center and Monte Vista cultivated within her a profound love for horses, showcasing her talents as a skilled horsewoman. In her later years, she channeled her passion into genealogy and family history, unearthing the roots and branches that made up the rich tapestry of her extended family. Antique shopping was another joy, an activity that married her love for history with the thrill of discovery.

Creede, Colorado, with its natural beauty and close-knit community, had been Sandy's and John's beloved haven for the past three decades. Friends and family were Sandy's treasure, with countless cherished moments spent in the company of her granddaughters, Lacye (Donald) Mills, Ashley (Craig) Twite, and her great-grandchildren Austin, Cadence, John, Trenea, Jaden, Taylor, Jazlynn, and Tatum, who together brought immeasurable joy to her life.

Sandra was preceded in death by her honored parents, loving son Donald Lee Howard, and dear sister Janet Strickland Borron. She is survived by her devoted husband John, her granddaughters and great-grandchildren, sister-in-law Judith Shue, as well as by the numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews whose lives she touched.

Her luminous spirit and nurturing heart will be deeply missed, leaving an indelible imprint on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Sandra Lynn Howard leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and the sweetest memories to be cherished by her family and the wider community she held so dear.

There will be a funeral service on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 11 a.m. at the Del Norte branch of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Rogers Family Mortuary is in care of arrangements. To leave online condolences, tributes and words of comfort to Sandy's family please visit www.RogersFunerals.com.