Sandra Gayle Lindley's Obituary
Sandra Gayle Lindley, 86, of Dallas, Texas, passed away on September 11, 2025. Sandra was born on July 6, 1939, in Austin, Texas and grew up “out in the country” in a small stone house off Bee Cave Road, now Westlake, the beloved only child of her parents. She graduated from Austin High School before attending the University of Texas at Austin (UT). She met her future husband, John Walker Lindley, Jr., also a UT student, when her mother invited him for Thanksgiving dinner as he was not able to travel back to East Texas for the holiday, a serendipitous introduction sparked by her mother’s connection to John as co-workers at Sears. Sandra and John married on July 26, 1958, when she was just 19, beginning a life together filled with warmth, laughter, and devotion. She and John shared 64 years of companionship until his passing in 2023.
Sandra was first and foremost a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She is survived by her son Randy (Heather), daughter Lori (Ted), and will be warmly remembered by her grandchildren Keith (Megan), Kevin (Sabrina), Mack, Kate, and Ford, and great-grandchildren Logan, Ava, Liara, Evan, and Link, all of whom cherished her generous heart. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John.
Sandra was a gifted homemaker who found deep joy in life’s simple pleasures, creating a warm and welcoming home for her loved ones. Her exceptional culinary talents shone through in every dish, delighting friends and family alike. Thanksgiving was a cherished occasion, where Sandra’s legendary feasts took center stage—her homemade cranberry sauce, signature turkey dressing, and an array of pies, including beloved lemon, chocolate, and apple, left lasting memories. Her family also treasured her signature chicken enchiladas, Frito pie, and delicate sand tarts, each dish a testament to her love and care.
When Randy and Lori were young, Sandra and John enjoyed traveling the country as a family, embarking on memorable road trips from Dallas to destinations like California, Colorado, Florida, Wyoming, and New York—anywhere with mountains. Later in life, she and John explored Europe and Hawaii with friends, cherishing new adventures. Sandra and John also created lasting memories by hosting a beloved “Grandma’s Camp” every summer for their beloved grandchildren – Keith and Kevin – fostering love, laughter, and lasting bonds through shared activities and traditions.
Sandra was known for her quick wit and humor. Christmas Day family gatherings were made extra special by her tradition of donning a costume—from a Ninja Turtle to SpongeBob SquarePants, Darth Vader or even a UPS driver—and ringing the doorbell, pretending to be a stranger joining the festivities.
For over 50 years, Sandra was an active member of the Junior Women’s Guild group, where she forged lifelong friendships and continued to gather regularly with her beloved companions. Sandra was a devoted Christian and a cherished member of the Stonebriar Bible Study, sharing her faith and uplifting others. An avid reader and talented gardener, Sandra was also a valued member of the Stonebriar Book Club, where she shared her love for literature, and the Stonebriar Garden Club, where she nurtured her passion for gardening. In her younger years, she enjoyed playing tennis at Brookhaven Country Club. Sandra and John were dedicated members of First United Methodist Church of Carrollton before joining Prestonwood Baptist Church, where Sandra taught pre-K for several years at the Prestonwood Day School. As committed Christians, they faithfully attended Sunday services, living their faith with unwavering devotion.
A memorial service to celebrate Sandra’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on September 15, 2025, at the Chapel at the T. Boone Pickens Faith Presbyterian Center at 12477 Merit Dr., Dallas, TX 75251. Sandra will forever be remembered for her kindness, graciousness, and the joy she brought to all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in memory of Sandra Lindley to the Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF - Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation).
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