Sandra Kay Kruse, 86, of
Moore, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at home on January 20, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on August 16, 1938, in Canton, Illinois, to Rex and Fern Jewell, Sandy lived a life filled with love, adventure, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys that brought her happiness.
On October 26, 1958, Sandy married her high school sweetheart, Wayne Kruse. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising their two children with love and devotion. Sandy and Wayne delighted in seeing their family grow, and becoming grandparents brought them immense joy. Their shared passion for raising show horses was a hallmark of their time together, and Sandy's love for animals extended to her cherished cats and dogs, who were always an important part of her life.
Wayne's Air Force career took the couple across the globe, giving Sandy the opportunity to live in Georgia, Illinois, Turkey, Kansas, Arizona, and Germany, where they spent six memorable years. During these travels, Sandra worked in civil roles on the military bases, except in Arizona, where she served as a secretary for the local school system. After their time in Germany, Wayne and Sandy retired in Oklahoma, where they continued to build a rich and fulfilling life.
Sandy was a woman of many talents and interests. She was an avid bowler, and she and Wayne enjoyed participating in bowling leagues, a passion they passed on to their children. After Wayne's passing, Sandy continued the tradition by joining bowling leagues with their children, Micki and Brian, as a family. She adored playing in her two bunco groups-one with the Moore First United Methodist Church and the other with friends she worked with at the IRS.
Sandy enjoyed creating ceramics in her younger years and loved tending to her vegetable garden. She looked forward each year to the Fair of the Hearts and the State Fair, where she delighted in knick-knack shopping. She also loved attending plays and musicals at the Lyric Theater and had a lifelong appreciation for Elvis Presley, fondly recalling the bittersweet connection of Elvis passing on her birthday in 1977.
A devoted member of the Moore First United Methodist Church, Sandy was deeply involved in Bible study and the Horizon Sunday School Class. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life and a source of strength and guidance throughout her years.
Sandy's family and friends will remember her warmth, kindness, and vibrant spirit. Her life was a testament to love, faith, and finding beauty in the world around her. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Moore Funeral and Cremation. In honor of Sandy's memory, attendees are encouraged to wear something purple, a nod to her favorite color and the joy it brought her.
Sandy is survived by her loving children, Micki (Raymond) Griffin and Brian (Debbie) Kruse; grandchildren, Eric Griffin, Ryan (John) Peace, Sierra (Alan) Shrum, and Taiwa Kruse; loving granddaughter-in-law, Crystal Griffin; great grandchildren, Gabriel Dance, Madison Griffin, Elena Peace, Athena Rhea, and Nora Peace; and close friend from working at the IRS, Shirley Raymond – they also had a birthday connection – they born on the exact same day; along with many additional extended family members and friends.
Sandy is preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Wayne Kruse; parents, Rex and Fern Jewell; brother, William; and sister, Barbara.
Sandy's legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. May her memory bring comfort and peace to all who were blessed to share in her remarkable journey.
Arrangements are under the thoughtful direction of Moore Funeral and Cremation. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Sandra "Sandy", please visit our floral store.