Sandra M. Tunnell, 79, of Washington, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria, Illinois.

She was born on April 23, 1946, in London, England, the daughter of Emil and Irene West Dimich. She married Edwin Frederick. She later married James “Jim” Tunnell on December 21, 1990, and he preceded her in death. She was also preceded by one granddaughter Michaela Frederick.

Surviving family members include her sons, Brian Frederick of California and Adam (Kristy) Frederick of Colorado, as well as her daughter, Teri Richie of East Peoria, Illinois. Her stepchildren, Jennifer (Bill) Welsh from Minnesota, and Jill (Buck) Thomas from Champaign, Illinois, along with six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, also survive her. Additionally, she is survived by two brothers, Michael Dimich and Terry (Diane) Dimich, and two sisters, Candice (Gady) Givol and Debbie Dimich, all of whom are from California.

She dedicated many years working as a clerk at the Peoria Stockyards and later at the Illinois Department of Children Family Services before enjoying her retirement.

She enthusiastically volunteered with several organizations such as Chosen Again of Washington, Branches of Washington, Moms Who Care, Snyder Village in Metamora, Helping Hands, and Snack Pack. She enjoyed traveling, visiting and making lasting memories with her family. Family meant the world to Sandra, shaping who she was and what she treasured most in life.

Per Sandra’s wishes, her cremation has been accorded. A celebration of her life will be scheduled at a later date. Her cremated remains will be entombed at the Columbarium in Glendale Cemetery, Washington. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to Chosen Again of Washington, Branches of Washington, or Helping Hands. Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington is handling the cremation arrangements. To share a memory or send condolences, visit www.masonfuneralhomes.com.