Sandra Mcghee

Sandra M. McGhee died at Peace Health St. John Medical Center on March 24, 2017, surrounded by family.

A service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at the First Baptist Church in Longview.

Sandra was the anchor of her family – a devoted daughter to her parents, a dedicated and loving wife, a caring and selfless mother, and a grandmother who adored and spoiled her grandchildren.

Sandra was born June 17, 1937, and grew up in the Vader-Ryderwood area until moving to Longview in the first grade. Sandra lived her remaining life in Longview, except while attending college. She graduated with a bachelor's in elementary education in 1960 from Baylor University in Texas, and a master's in elementary education in 1965 from the University of Oregon. Sandra began her teaching career in 1960 at Olympic Elementary School, and soon thereafter, met the love of her life, Delbert "Del" McGhee, at a teachers' meeting. They were married in August 1961, and in 1962 welcomed their first daughter, Sheri, followed by Karen in 1967.

Sandra devoted her entire career to children, first as an elementary school teacher, and later, after "retirement," as a para-educator in the Longview School District. She taught second and third graders for 47 years, and then returned to play the piano for middle school choirs at Mt. Solo and Monticello Middle schools. Her career with the Longview School District spanned over 55 years.

Sandra was an accomplished musician and loved to give of her musical talents. In high school, she taught both piano and accordion lessons. She was a long-time dedicated and valuable member of First Baptist Church, contributing in both leadership and service positions. She played the organ and later the piano for Sunday services, as well as many weddings and memorials. She was able to pursue her passion up until the time of her death.

After her faith, family was her highest priority throughout her life. Sandra enjoyed spending time with her family, going above and beyond in supporting her children's and grandchildren's activities and pursuits. Later in life, she went on several "big adventures" with her family, including a hot air balloon ride and a train trip to Chicago. Until her death, she lived independently with her beloved cat, Sophie, and had an active social life with her many wonderful and devoted friends.

Sandra was preceded in death by Del, her husband of 50 years; and by a granddaughter, Rachel Vaughn.

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Sandra is survived by her daughters, Sheri Nicolaisen (Niels) of Gig Harbor, Wash., and Karen Weiss (Josh) of Olympia, Wash.; and a granddaughter, Annika Vaughn of Olympia.

A special thank you to the doctors and nurses at Peace Health St. John Medical Center for their exceptional care and commitment to Sandra.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Longview and Make-A-Wish of Alaska & Washington.