Sandra Jean Ghormley
July 11, 1949 – May 29, 2021
Sandra Jean Ghormley, born in San Luis Obispo, California, was the daughter of the late Mary Elizabeth Luckel and Orin Eugene Compton. She was a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, friend and mentor, as well as an avid antique collector and chicken whisperer.
On May 29, 2021, at 4:30 a.m., Sandra entered Heaven’s Gates peacefully, surrounded by her husband, three of her sons and her oldest granddaughter. Sandra was a devoted wife and mother, dear friend, dedicated colleague and mentor. She had a magnetic personality and knew no stranger. She was filled with compassion, generosity, joy and a zest for life. Sandra knew how to make everyone feel loved and important, gave the best hugs, and had a smile for anyone in her path; she was loved by many. Her boisterous laugh was contagious. Sandra always saw the best in everyone and stood up for what she believed in. She fiercely loved her family and would fight to the bitter end for any of them.
Sandra pursued some business ventures over the years, but she was most passionate about mentoring and empowering others, especially women, to break through the glass ceiling. She saw no limits – if she wanted something she went for it. All things were possible it just took dedication, grit and perseverance.
Sandra had a sense of adventure and enjoyed traveling. She moved to Alaska in 1980 – living there for 32 years; this is where she met her husband and built a beautiful family and life.
A woman with unwavering faith, she knew she would be in Jesus’ arms one day. She believed that God called her to invest in and love others – and boy, she more than fulfilled her calling. She would give the shirt off her back to anyone in need. As a philanthropist, she dedicated her time to the American Cancer Society, Rotary Foundation, Idaho Youth Ranch and many others.
She is survived by her husband, Dennis; her children Beverly Kidwell (Jeff), Brian Stromberg (Toni), Todd Ghormley (Stephanie), Daniel Ghormley, Jacob Ghormley; her grandchildren, Katy (Katy Bug) Creeley, Max Stromberg, Ella Stromberg, Evan Stromberg, Arya Ghormley, Braden Ghormley, Conner Ghormley, Addison Kidwell, Emma Kidwell; her sister Carol Yocum (Cyrus); many amazing friends and loved ones she called family; as well as her chicken farm aka “The Best Little Hen House in Idaho.” She is preceded by her parents and grandson Archer Reid Ghormley.
In lieu of flowers or a gift, please consider a donation to Rotary Foundation at www.rotary.org/en/donate or the Idaho Youth Ranch at www.youthranch.org in her memory.
A memorial service and celebration of life will be held July 2021.
