Sandra Lynn Panich

Sandra S. Panich, born Sandra Lynn Sandefur and known as “Sandy” to her family and friends, passed away on November 7, 2026, at the age of 86.

She was born on July 26, 1940, in Vandervoort, Arkansas. Sandy built a life marked by intelligence, warmth, and devotion to her family. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree with a focus in Microbiology from the University of Arkansas, beginning a path that reflected both her sharp mind and her steady determination.

Sandy worked in Quality for Eli Lilly and Company and retired after 39 years of service. She was a hardworking, dedicated employee that was well liked by her coworkers and admired by her family. Alongside her professional accomplishments, she was known for being kind and welcoming, loving, and friendly, with a gift for making friends quickly. In recent years after her husband, Zoran’s passing, Sandy moved to a senior living community in Texas where, in a very short time, she was a friend to everyone and maintained a steady schedule of card games and Rummikub with her friends. She was known for her sharp mind and careful eye for grammar and spelling, traits that endured until the very end.

To her family, Sandy was a wonderful role model whose love was felt in countless everyday moments. Her Thanksgiving dinners brought tradition and family togetherness year over year, in addition to love and memories that will last for many generations. She loved to travel across the United States and Canada, embracing new sights, adventure and time shared with her loving husband. She also loved to read and to play bingo at family holiday gatherings, helping create memories that will be treasured for years to come.

Sandy is survived by her daughter, Michelle Horton (Matt), and sons Stephen Panich (Emily), and Jordan Panich (Lacie). She also leaves behind her six beloved grandchildren who already miss her dearly, Taylor and Payton Horton, Amelia and Sophia Panich, and Ryder and Ellie Panich, in addition to her brother-in-law, Slavo Panich, and his family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Zoran, her sister, Sharon Englert, and her mother and father, Reba and William Sandefur.

Sandy will be remembered with deep love and gratitude by all who knew her. Her life was one of purpose, care, and quiet generosity, and her memory will remain a blessing to her family and friends