Sandra Ledford

Sandra Kay Lawhorn Ledford, aged 75, of Palestine, Texas, passed away on January 12, 2024. Born to Sammie Ruth Campbell Lawhorn Spence and Earnest Hodge Lawhorn on September 4, 1948, in Palestine, Texas, she shared a close relationship with her father, which remained a significant part of her life. She was a beloved sister to Jerry Zack Lawhorn and Tommy Joe Lawhorn. After Sandra’s father’s passing, her mother later found companionship in marrying again to Leonard Spence. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Sandra devoted her career to children’s ministry, serving on staff in seven churches. She loved teaching children about Jesus in memorable ways, whether it involved story telling through song, stomping grapes or bringing a real, live camel to Vacation Bible School. Her passion for her faith and children left an indelible impression on the heart of countless children and families. Her impact extended beyond her immediate environment as she embarked on numerous mission trips, worked as a consultant for local Baptist associations, and mentored upcoming children’s ministers. Sandra’s journey of motherhood was marked by an urgency to teach her children about Jesus. Alongside her husband, James David Ledford, she adopted three children, Brenda Kay Ledford Andrews, James Anthony “Tony” Ledford, and Steven Ray Ledford. Her role as a grandmother to Lucas Hundley Locke and Bryce Aaron Burrow brought her great joy. Sandra’s hobbies were a reflection of her vibrant personality. She shared her creativity and talent with stained glass art and brought harmony as the organist of her church, sharing her love for music and singing. Her porch was a sanctuary for enjoying the simple pleasures of life – watching hummingbirds, savoring coffee, and sharing ice cream and pie with friends and family. Sandra’s fun-loving spirit was infectious, especially at water aerobics, where her humor and vitality made every session memorable. She cherished her relationship with her friends and family. Sandra is survived by her husband of 48 years, James David Ledford; her children, Brenda Kay Ledford Andrews and spouse Ben Andrews, James Anthony “Tony” Ledford, and Steven Ray Ledford and spouse Lacey Turner; her grandchildren, Lucas Hundley Locke and Bryce Aaron Burrow; and her brother, Tommy Joe Lawhorn. She is preceded in death by her parents, Sammie Ruth Campbell Lawhorn and Earnest Hodge Lawhorn; her stepfather, Leonard Spence; and her brother, Jerry Zack Lawhorn. Funeral service celebrating Sandra’s legacy will be at 1:00pm, Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024 at First Baptist Church in Terrell with her family receiving friends beginning at 12:00pm to service time. Interment will follow the funeral service at Grove Hill Memorial Park in Dallas. The pallbearers serving in honor of Sandra will be Ben Andrews, Warren Fyffe, Michael Lawhorn, Richard Lawhorn, Tracy Lawhorn, and Lance Satterwhite. As we gather to bid farewell, we celebrate a life well-lived, a heart generously loved and a spirit that will forever inspire those she touched. Floral tributes are appreciated, or, for those who wish to make a contribution in Sandra’s memory, donations are welcomed at the children’s ministry of any of the churches she dedicatedly served.

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Sandra Ledford

September 4, 1948 - January 12, 2024