Sandra Lee "Sandie" Pifer

Sandra "Sandie" Lee Gauld was born on February 9, 1942, to Clifford and Bertha Gauld in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. When she was very young, the family moved to Manton, Michigan. At just one year old, Sandie lost her father-a loss deeply felt within their large family of thirteen children. Though times were often difficult, theirs was a home grounded in faith, filled with love, laughter, and the kind of closeness many families only dream of.

At twenty, Sandie moved to Rochester, New York, to pursue a career in nursing. While working at Rochester General Hospital, she met her future husband, William "Bill" Pifer. Sandie and Bill were married for 54 years and raised three sons together. Motherhood brought Sandie her greatest joy; she poured her heart into caring for her family and creating a warm, welcoming home (though she often joked she could have done without the cooking part). During those years, she also earned her Associate of Applied Science in Nursing from Monroe Community College, balancing dedication to both her family and her interest in nursing.

As her family grew, so did Sandie's heart. When her sons Bill and Gary married their wives, Carol and Debbie, Sandie embraced them as her own daughters. She loved them deeply and cherished the bond they shared-not as in-laws, but as part of the heart of her family. When Carol and Bill welcomed their son, Nathaniel, into the world, Sandie and her husband were overjoyed. Their love for their grandson knew no bounds; Nathaniel brought them endless pride and joy, and they adored him beyond words.

With so many siblings, Sandie's extended family was vast and ever-growing. She somehow knew every name, every birthday, and every story. Her gift for storytelling-whether recalling her childhood, sharing family history, or simply reminiscing about life's simple pleasures or pains-drew everyone in. Her love for others was genuine, humble, and unconditional. To know Sandie was to love her.

To the many family members and friends whose lives she touched across the country, know that whether you knew her as "Aunt Sandie," "Sandie," or "Mom," she carried each of you in her heart. She thought of you often, prayed for you faithfully, and loved you deeply. Each of you was a blessing to her, and you brought her more happiness than you'll ever know.

Sandie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Bill; her precious grandson, Nathaniel; and her nine brothers and three sisters. She leaves behind her sons Bill and his wife Carol, Rob, and Gary and his wife Debbie-each of whom she loved with all her heart, along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends, including Pearl McKinley and Kathy Menken.

Friends and family are invited to call on Sunday, December 21, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Miller Funeral Home, 3325 Winton Road South, Rochester, NY 14623. A funeral service will be held on Monday, December 22, at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by a luncheon at a local restaurant.

In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the Global Smile Foundation in memory of Sandie Pifer. To donate online, please click HERE.