Sandra Jo "Sandy" Powers

Sandra Jo "Sandy" Powers, born on July 27, 1941, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 9, 2026, surrounded by family. Sandy lived a life rooted in devotion to her family, her home, and the many people fortunate enough to be cared for by her.

At the very center of Sandy's life was her family. She shared a love story worthy of a fairy tale with her beloved husband, Richard “Dick” Powers. Married for 62 years until Dick's passing in 2022, their marriage was one of deep commitment, partnership, and enduring love. Together, they built a life filled with warmth, laughter, and unwavering support for one another.

Sandy was a devoted and loving mother to her seven children, Terri Gove (Bob McGowan), Scott, Todd (Carol), Shannon (Angie), Erin (Bryan) Miller, Ryan (Sophia), and Matt (Angie). She carried that same fierce love into her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother, as she was the proud grandmother of twenty-five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. Sandy delighted in having her grandchildren around, spending time with them, and spoiling them in ways that made them feel endlessly loved. With her, they felt safe, cared for, and truly at home. During the summer months, one could often find Sandy sitting on the porch swing, almost always with a grandchild by her side, simple moments that became lifelong memories.

Sandy was a natural caregiver, not just within her family but in all areas of her life. She had a creative spirit and a remarkable eye for beauty. She was wonderfully crafty and once created a stunning stained-glass window that hung in the family's riverside home for many years. That treasured piece now lives in the home of one of her granddaughters, a meaningful symbol of Sandy's creativity and the love she and Richard created within their large family.

She loved collecting unique treasures, often found while browsing flea markets and garage sales, always seeing value and charm where others might pass by. Sandy also found joy and peace in gardening, especially while tending to her beautiful rose garden.

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Mary (Mullally) Washburn; her beloved husband, Richard Powers Jr.; her sister, Jolene Hardy; and her son-in-law, Edward Gove. She is survived by her sister, Janice (George) Watkins.

In her later years, Sandy resided at Snyder Village, where the staff became like family to her. She was deeply cared for and loved, and her family is profoundly grateful for the compassion, kindness, and dignity shown to her during her time there.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Father David Kipfer officiating. Recitation of the Rosary will be held at 4:30 pm on Friday, February 13, 2026 with visitation to follow from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Mason Funeral Home Metamora Chapel. Burial will be in St. Mary of Lourdes Catholic Cemetery following her mass on Saturday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Jude Runs Washington, c/o Washington Community Bank, 1895 Washington Road, Washington, IL 61571 or to Susan G. Komen Memorial Affiliate, 4700 North University Street, Suite 92, Peoria, IL 61614. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

Sandy's legacy lives on through the family she cherished, the homes she made warm, the beauty she created with her hands, and the countless lives she touched through her quiet strength and endless care. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.