Sunday, October 13, 2024
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Sandra 'Sandy' Watts, 89

| October 1, 2024 1:00 AM

It is with deep sorrow we announce the passing of Mrs. Sandra "Sandy" Watts. 

Born on Oct. 23, 1935, at age 89, Sandy left us peacefully Feb. 20, 2024. She is remembered fondly for her warmth, infectious giggle and her ever-present consideration for others.

Sandy was born to the late Doratha Webster and Clarence Kelley. 

She was a proud alumna of Brethren High School, Long Beach, Calif., Class of 1953. Sandy was involved in many student body activities such as Commissioner of Girl's Athletics, Glee Club, Cheer leader and Historian Club. 

She was a highly accomplished figure skater, and later in life she would dazzle the family ice skating together at her home on Lake Cocolalla. She was a skilled slalom water-skier, which deserves special praise since she never learned how to swim. She was a natural green thumb and loved growing and tending to her flowers. As the family Matriarch she would host family gatherings and cook up a feast. She had a talent for creating beautifully warm and inviting homes and decorating them for holidays for all to enjoy. 

She loved living near the lake with her husband of 57 years, Doug. She enjoyed sitting outside with him watching the animals, having a coffee and conversation. 

In her 20s, she had a successful modelling career that later evolved into teaching etiquette, confidence and poise in her deportment class. She also worked at the Clark County District Attorney's office in Las Vegas, Nev., was an assistant teacher at Southside Christian School, was a tax specialist at H&R Block and lastly worked as a legal secretary for a California law firm. She was indeed multitalented.

Sandy is survived by her husband, Doug Watts; her children, Randy Ross, Bob Ross, Brad Bryars and Kellie Harcourt; a son-in-law, Kristian Harcourt; two daughtes-in-law, Anne Ross and Robyn McNall Ross; 16 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren,and four great-great-grandchildren; and finally, her dearly loved dogs, Muffin and Zoe. 

Sadly, she was preceded in death by her son, Kyal Watts; grandson Remi Harcourt; and great-grandson Tyler Vierra.

One of the greatest joys in Sandy's life was being a hands-on dedicated mother and raising her five children, Randy, Bob, Brad, Kyal and Kellie. She was the biggest supporter of their dreams, hobbies and aspirations. 

Sandy was a woman of great resilience, often advising to take life one day at a time. She had a lifelong devotion to her faith as it gave her great comfort. Being part of a congregation full of friends lifted her spirit.

Her legacy of love and kindness will continue to touch the lives of people she met, and her memory will live on in our hearts.

A celebration of life will be held in her honor Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 2 p.m. at the Healing Garden, 600 N. Third Ave., Sandpoint.