November 27, 1943 – July 10, 2022
Sandra Leigh Jones Ivey passed away in Houston on July 10, 2022. She was born in Houston at St. Joseph’s Hospital on November 27, 1943. Sandra was preceded in death by her parents Ivey and Myrtle Jones and sisters, Barbra Dubose and Cheryl Jones, as well as her best friend, Patsy Dansby. Sandra is survived by so many people who love her: Her devoted husband of 60 years, William G Ivey. Her son, Randy Ivey and spouse Toni Tagliarino. Her daughter, Krista Johnson and husband Randy Johnson. Her grandchildren who know her by the name of Nannie: Heather Ivey Ballard and husband Brian Ballard, and great-grandchildren Landon and Caroline Ballard. Hunter Ivey and his fiancé Kelsey. Dr. Hayden Ivey and wife Dr. Jordy Geiler. Madelyn Johnson Vitolo and husband Cole Vitolo. Jacob Johnson and Meredith Johnson. Additional family members including: Lisa Ivey-Liverman and husband Stephen Liverman. Stan and Caroline Ivey family, Vicki and Bill Lehner, Jennifer and Colin LaForge family, Bryan Norton, Terry and Jon Hampton family, and Karen Dupuis family.
Sandra attended Alvin High School and was the secretary of her class. She was a cheerleader and continued to stay in touch with many from her graduating class of 1961. Sandra attended Lamar University where she met the love of her life, Bill. They fell in love dancing and continued to dance together through all of life. Sandra provided unconditional love, steadfast support, and everlasting respect to her husband. Sandra was a medical technologist for several doctors, and she loved working within the medical field. In 1963, their son Randy was born. As his mother, he felt she was the greatest person he had ever known and that she was not only his mother, but also his friend. She loved and supported him if he deserved it or not, no matter what, she was there. In 1967 they welcomed their daughter Krista. As her mother, Krista felt that she was the most generous and loving person she has ever known. She was her first best friend. She enjoyed life to the fullest and brought out the very best in all of us. Krista’s best friend Kelly Henderson not only holds a special bond with Krista, but also did with Mrs. Ivey. When Kelly became a member of the Episcopal Church, she asked Mrs. Ivey to be her Godmother. Sandra was honored to be in this role, and their relationship was filled with faith and love.
Once grandkids came along, Sandra became Nannie and they were her greatest joy. She was continually present in each of her grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s lives. She played harder than any other grandmother. She knew all the best hiding spots, could make a fantastic fort and knew no bedtime. She spent many late nights taking grandkids and friends to the Houston Rodeo, concerts, and late-night movies. For all 6 of her grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren she attended class parties, field trips, sporting events and even traveled for college visits. Nannie was so much fun. She had enough love, energy and attention to make each of their relationships feel special and unique. She was the greatest Nannie and “adopted” many of her grandchildren’s friends as her own.
Sandra joined The First United Methodist Church of Alvin on January 27, 1957. The day the Methodist church on Johnston St. opened its doors, Sandra sang in the choir. She was a loyal choir member, soup kitchen volunteer and served on various other committees within the Church. She loved her church, and was very passionate about Kids Club. She loved on endless amounts of kids, and fed them endless amounts of pizza. We know this touched the lives of so many children and families in the community.
She served on Keep Alvin Beautiful, and had many years of membership in Mothers Club. She was a loyal and true friend to many and had countless memories with each of them including fun trips and playing cards until 3am. In her final days she had many friends alongside her that supplied endless encouragement, care and love. Her faithful best friend, Marsha Crainer, rarely left her side and provided enduring support and love for her and her family.
Sandra left a legacy that will continue on in the hearts and lives of those who loved her. She taught us how to graciously give and forgive in the way the Lord intended. She was the light in every room and her laughter knew no bounds! She truly loved like Jesus.
A visitation for Sandra Leigh Ivey will be held on Sunday July 17, 2022 from 5:00-7:00pm at Jeter Funeral Home in Friendswood. A funeral service will be held on Monday, July 18, 2022 at 10:00 am at First United Methodist Church of Alvin, 600 W. South St., Alvin, Texas 77511 with Rev. Wesley Duncan and Rev. Kenny Carter officiating. Interment will follow at Confederate Cemetery in Alvin, Texas.
Pallbearers will include Hunter Ivey, Hayden Ivey, Jake Johnson, Brian Ballard, Cole Vitolo, Ron Dansby, Tony Crainer, and Rick Sharp.
Her family asks in lieu of flowers that donations be made in her name and memory to First United Methodist Church of Alvin Children’s Ministry.
Condolences may be sent to the Ivey family in care of Jeter Memorial Funeral Home at www.jeterfuneralhome.com.
12 thoughts on “Sandra Leigh Jones Ivey”
Oh the sweet memories we have that will comfort us when we are heartbroken. Our sympathy to the precious family and friends that she loved so deeply and completely. We are honored to be loved by Sandra and be called her friend.. Her legacy of love, kindness and generosity will never be forgotten. That hug and kiss on the cheek will be missed…
She loved us all with her whole heart and we will carry that forever.
“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying , or pain”
Oh, Ms. Ivey. You couldn't have moved to Hillcrest at a better time. You knew what your role was the instance you met the Atkins family. You hired us, fed us, and watched over the fence to make sure everything was ok. Thank you for Randy, the unlimited Twinkies, and for letting us swim anytime we wanted! You looked great driving around in that sweet (1976?) Pontiac Trans Am and your grin and laugh was contagious! Your legacy to your immediate and "adopted" families will NEVER be forgotten. Love you like a son, Jay
Sandra will be missed by family and friends . She was a very sweet caring person who loved everyone . Just remember Everytime you think of her she is right here in your heart. She is in heaven now with God and the angels. In sympathy. Margie hill
One of the kindest women on earth. She is missed by so many. She has been described as the “cool” mom and and grandma. Her smile reflected her beautiful soul. Sandra’s work here on earth is done. Her wings in heaven were waiting and I’m sure she looks gorgeous as she now wears them. Rest well sweet Sandra.
What a special lady! I was blessed to know her, and I know my mother cherished their long friendship. Prayers of peace to her family.
Such a generous person! Mrs. Ivey, Sandra, called the school each year I was a principal to ask if any child needed a coat. She would go out and purchase them a new coat, not for the recognition, but to show the love she had for those in need. There were many times she would “check in” to see if anyone needed anything through the years. “Nannie”, as my daughter Katie would call her, was so very kind to all. Heaven has gained a precious angel. I know her family will miss her deeply. Prayers are being sent to all who loved her.
Mrs. Ivey as I called her and knew her was like a second mom to me. Randy her son and I were best of friends in high school and beyond. I practically lived at their house during my high school years and Mrs. Ivey was so special to me. I love their family an she was one of the reasons. Even though as time went on and our lives moved as well, I always have great memories of her and her family. It is with great sadness (selfishly) that I write this and know she is in heaven where all things are new. Thanks for being my back up mom, yours truly.
Mrs. Sandra was one of the kindest most selfless people I have ever met. It was a privilege to get to know her. She was an example of how to live life. I loved that Bill always referred to her as his beautiful bride. She will be missed. Prayers for your family.
There is truly nobody more classy than this woman. She was so welcoming and wholesome with everybody she came across. it didn’t matter the time or day, she ALWAYS wore a smile on her face. I miss her fantastic vibes already, But I’m so assured she’s still here giving us all her love as usual.
I wanted Sandra to know and I wrote to her months ago letting her know how much I have always looked up to her and admired her. She was always someone I wanted to be like! She was beautiful and sweet and kind and thoughtful! She was a great mom, grandma and great-grandma and It was easy to see why they all adored her! She was a true matriarch to her family and leaves an incredible legacy. She will be missed by so many. Through Jesus, there is no pain in heaven!!! May God bless the entire Ivy family and give you peace. I love you, marie
My husband and I are praying for the entire family. Ms. Sandra was most (and will always be) definitely a class act and one of the best of God's children. Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with all the family and friends. I know that she will be missed tremendously. Thank you Ms. Sandra for sharing your precious son with us and for loving my daughter for so many years. Cheers until we meet again in Glory!
Our deepest condolences for your loss. Even though we didn’t have the pleasure of knowing her, we always heard so many wonderful things about your mother. Her memory lives on through you.
Blessings to you and your family