Saundra Kay McFarland

Saundra Kay Pierce McFarland, age 56, of Corbin, KY, passed away on Friday, September 26, 2025, at St. Joseph Hospital in Lexington, KY.

Born in Jellico, TN, she was the daughter of the late Chester Walker and Wilma Waller Hamby.

Saundra had a heart that was always open to others; a helping hand, a listening ear, and a warm presence to all who knew her. She was active and always on the go, whether serving as a caregiver, cleaning homes, or tending her small garden. Her greatest joy, however, came from the love of her family and the companionship of her beloved dog, Willow.

She found delight in simple pleasures: visiting the Carolinas, caring for her home, and especially celebrating the Christmas season. Saundra loved Christmas so dearly that she often began counting down the days far in advance, eagerly anticipating the joy and spirit it brought.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, Anthony McFarland, and her sister, Patricia Lay.

She is survived by her daughter, Laura Beth McFarland, who will hold her memory close forever.

At Saundra’s request, arrangements will be private.

Arrangements are entrusted to Vankirk-Grisell Funeral Home. Messages of condolence may be written to the family at vankirkgrisellfuneralhome.com.

When Great Trees Fall

By: Maya Angelou

And when great souls die, after a period peace blooms, slowly and always irregularly. Spaces fill with a kind of soothing electric vibration. Our senses, restored, never to be the same, whisper to us. They existed. They existed. We can be. Be and be better. For they existed.