Wilma Gale Sandberg

Wilma "Gale" (Puryear) Sandberg, 98, entered her heavenly rest on July 30, 2025. She was born in Dripping Springs, Texas, on December 21, 1926 and lived most of her life in Austin, Texas.

Gale was an excellent student at Dripping Springs High School where she was the salutatorian in 1945. She was a hard worker, a trait developed early in life from her childhood chores of gardening, milking cows, and picking a crop of tomatoes, peaches and pears to bring a stay-at-home mom. As Gale's children grew up, she returned to full-time employment in the office of Woodlawn Baptist Church and then O'Henry Middle School in AISD before retiring.

Gale married Jim Sandberg on his 22nd birthday on July 29, 1945. They were happily married for 51 years before Jim passed away and were joined in love for 80 years this July. What an amazing example of love and commitment they were to so many.

Gale was a fabulous cook for her family and the many others who graced her home. She served Sunday lunch to her family and friends faithfully for many years. We crowded around the table sharing food, stories and laughter. There was always room for one more at the table.

More than anything, Gale was a caregiver. Her life was characterized by service, hospitality and generosity. She pulled teeth for every kid in the neighborhood. She cared for Jim through his many illnesses that appeared early in their marriage, ultimately caring for him at their home until he passed at age 73 in 1996. Gale cared for her mom for a portion of her life until she passed away in her home and did the same with her older sister. Because of her love, many claimed Gale as their own mother.

Gale's faith in the Lord began at a young age. She lived out her faith in her actions, including serving as a ladies' Bible Study teacher as a young adult until her senior years. Gale knew her Bible and biblical history and was always ready to share her faith.

Gale leaves a tremendous legacy to her surviving family. She is survived by her daughter Lynda Sanders (Chris) and her son, James Sandberg, II (Judy). She is also survived by her grandchildren Ben Sanders (Lauren), Andrea Joyner (Jeremy), Faith Sandberg-Rodriguez (David) and her grandson-in-law, Todd Wesson. Her great grandchildren are Savannah Sanders (Richard Anderson), Ethan Sanders, Henley Sanders, Jacob Sanders, Ian Wesson and Ashley Wesson. Additionally, she is survived by one great, great granddaughter, Annabelle Anderson. Mr. Tobias Heinrich of Germany became an adopted grandson as an exchange student. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, their children and a host of friends far and wide.

Gale was preceded in death by the love of her life, James "Jim" Sandberg and her beloved granddaughter, Lauren Wesson. Gale was the last of the nine children of Tom and Viola Puryear. Mr. Bill Jackson preceded her later in life as a wonderful companion and friend after Jim had passed.

Gale's commitment to her family and faith in Jesus Christ are hallmarks of her life and have made a lasting impression on her family and friends. She will truly be missed.

Her family is grateful for those who assisted in her care over the past five years: Anjanette Jones, Letty Salazar, Tammy Andricak, Amy Wessels, her physical therapist, and several caregivers from Halcyon Home Health. Her doctors and nurses and all who cared for her were outstanding.

Memorial contributions may be made to Westoak Woods Baptist Church or a charity of your choice

A public visitation will be held from 6:00PM- 8:00PM Monday August 4th, 2025 at Harrell funeral homes of Austin. A funeral service will be held at Westoak woods baptist church 10:00AM Tuesday August 5th, 2025, following the funeral service a graveside will take place at Puryear Cemetery in Dripping Springs, TX.