Sandra Jean Phillips

Sandra Jean Phillips, better known as "Sandy" to her friends, peacefully passed away on the 9th of August, 2024, at the age of 83 in Cornelia, Georgia, with her niece, Kelly, and great-niece, Katie, by her side. Born on the 11th of September 1940, in Lagrange, Georgia, she brought immense joy and light into the lives of her parents, the late Eunice Ray Phillips and Arne B. Phillips, and her dear sister, the late Sylvia Phillips.
Sandra was a proud 1958 graduate of Lagrange High School. After high school, Sandra waved her Auburn University banner with pride, urging the Tigers to victory every game season after season. For over three and a half decades, Sandra contributed to the well-being of others as the Director of Tissue Preservation at the Alabama Tissue Center at UAB Health Service Foundation, fostering hope and healing from 1967 to 2003.
Sandra lived her life with an excitement that was contagious, sharing her wit and zest for life with her friends and family. Creative and loving, she was often seen as the heart of any gathering. Sandra is also remembered for her unrestrained love for Auburn football. The Rocky Mountain trails knew her footprints well, and the North Carolina highlands will miss her joyful spirit. Later in life, she found solace in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was a friendly game of bridge or spending time walking her beloved pets, Sissy and Pete.
She leaves behind a treasured circle of family, including her beloved niece, Kelly Turner (Ron), and nephew, Lou Hartley. She was a cherished great-aunt to Katie Riner (Justin) and Erin Allen (Michael), as well as a proud great-great-aunt to Bryson and Jackson Allen. Sandra's memory will also be honored by her cousins: Susan Drapp, Al, Tommy, and David Ward, and their families.
The family welcomes friends and loved ones to a visitation on Saturday, August 17, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, with a service to follow at 3:00 PM at Higgins Funeral Home at Hunter-Allen-Myhand, 506 Hill St, LaGrange, GA 30241. A catered lunch will be available during the visitation hours for those who wish to share stories and celebrate Sandra's life. Her feisty spirit and tender heart will be deeply missed and remembered with love by all who knew her.