Gladys Sandfur

Gladys Sandfur was born Mary Owen Parker in Lyon County, Kentucky. She was the daughter of Arthur and Della Parker. Over time, “Mary Owen” became Gladys, although some people continued to call her “Mary” well into adulthood. For just about everyone she knew though, she was “Granny”.

Granny worked hard her entire life, whether it be on the farm, at the hotel owned by Stella Hawley, or at a variety of restaurant jobs. She also worked as a caretaker for several families in both Kentucky and Indiana. Never one to shy away from manual labor, she was also handy with a saw, hammer, and other construction tools. She performed home renovation projects and other carpentry work. She always endeavored to depend on no one but herself and “The Good Master”.

Granny was married first to Branch Cole (father of her daughters) and later to Robert Sandfur, who was called “Paw”. Her home and heart were always open to family and friends. Granny believed in raising her children (and later grandchildren) with a firm but loving hand. She stressed the importance of education and believed in grooming her offspring to be the best.
Granny enjoyed fishing, yard work, and cooking a variety of dishes. She also enjoyed sewing quilts and clothes.

The family would like to extend thanks to Braun’s Nursing Home and Kindred Hospice for the excellent care provided, especially at the close of Granny’s life.

Granny was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Sandfur and daughter Mary Jane Carter. She is survived by daughter: Zaakirah Rashaad (Barbara Ann Cole); sister: Tylene Thompson; grandchildren: Denise Griffith-Taylor, Bruceann King, David Griffith, Terry Gish, Meko Levels, Reko Levels. nieces: Eloise Livingston, Geraldine Hooser, Jessie “Nunie” Higgins, Carolyn Covington; nephews: Clyde Thompson, Lawrence Parker, David Parker. She is also survived by a beautiful host of great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

There are a million reasons why Granny will be missed. Her wisdom will always be ingrained in our minds, and her love is forever embedded in our hearts.

Memorial contributions may be made at www.gofundme.com/julius-king-tramill