Sandra K. Spokas

Sandra K. Spokas (nee Rightnour), age 65 of Brook Park, passed away on Saturday, November 16, 2024. Beloved mother of Dale and Jay (Abby); devoted grandmother of Jay Jr.; former spouse and father of her children, Jon Spokas; cherished aunt, cousin, and friend to many. Preceded in death by her parents, Jay and Verdine Rightnour (nee Tweedy) and her sister, Susan Breen (Ken, deceased).
Sandy was a force of nature, much like the remarkable women who came before her. Her kindness was boundless and unconditional, and she had an incredible knack for making you feel special. Whether it was a birthday, anniversary, or any milestone in your life, Sandy always made sure to celebrate it with you.
Born on December 14, 1958, in Cleveland, Ohio, she spent her childhood in Brook Park alongside her sister, Sue. They roamed the neighborhood with childhood friends, always on the lookout for their next adventure.
Sandy married and was blessed with two sons. Her boys were the light of her life. Their family settled in a charming century home in Garfield Heights which became the heart of countless family gatherings and a safe haven for anyone who was in need of help.
Tragedy struck the family when her sister, Sue, passed away at the age of 34. Despite her own heartbreak, Sandy selflessly gave Sue's children a glimpse of the life she created for her boys. She was so much more than an aunt to all of her nieces and nephews. Her home became a refuge for all in times of strife.
Sandy made it her mission to ensure everyone experienced the best vacations, had holidays filled with love and laughter, and never missed an opportunity to host an epic party in her basement on Pickway. As the family grew, she welcomed a daughter-in-law, Abby, two great-nephews, and her first grandson, Jay Jr., with open arms.
With every new addition to the family, Sandy raised the bar on being the "fun" mother and aunt. She was famous for creating holiday games and never once complained about the inevitable mess. One year, she gave out marshmallow guns, leading to a legendary fight and years of finding stray marshmallows in every corner of her house.
Her free time was a celebration of life's little joys, whether it was relaxing at her camper or watching two grown men fight during a hockey game. Summers were spent savoring the warmth of campfires, and winters were for cheering on her beloved Lake Erie Monsters.
It was a great shock for all when in October she entered the hospital. None of us could have imagined facing a world without her love, laughter, and light. Sandy passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones in a room filled with flowers sent by those who cherished her.
A service to celebrate Sandy's life will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the Middleburg Heights Community United Church of Christ, 7165 Big Creek Parkway, Middleburg Heights, OH 44130. In honor of Sandy, we invite everyone to wear purple, her favorite color. A small reception will follow the service, where we encourage you to laugh, share stories of her kindness, and remember the love she gave so freely.
440-842-7800 www.buschcares.com