Sandra Koechner

Sandra R. Koechner, 80, of Tipton, passed away Tuesday, June 9, 2026, St. Mary’s Hospital in Jefferson City, MO.

She was born on June 15, 1945, in Raytown, MO, a daughter of Ray and Inez (Adkins) Brizendine. On April 11, 1964, at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Tipton she married JD Koechner.

Sandy will be remembered for her kind heart, gentle spirit, and the warm smile that brightened countless days. For many years, she faithfully served lunch at Tipton High School, where students and staff alike looked forward to seeing her welcoming face each day. Sandy took great pride in caring for others, finding joy in even the simplest acts of kindness and making everyone feel valued and appreciated.

A devoted member of the Cowboy Church in Tipton, Sandy lived her faith through service and compassion. She also dedicated many years to serving on the board of the Tipton Nutrition Center, helping support and care for members of her community.

Sandy found happiness in life's simple treasures. She had a special love for snowmen and cardinals, finding beauty, comfort, and joy in both. Whether decorating her home with her cherished collections or watching a bright red cardinal outside her window, these small delights brought a smile to her face and warmth to her heart.

A gifted crafter and talented seamstress, Sandy spent countless hours creating handmade treasures for family and friends. It brought her great joy making these crafts with her two grandchildren Ethan and Layne. Her sewing projects, crafts, and thoughtful gifts were expressions of the love she carried for those around her. One of her greatest joys was patching blue jeans for her grandson, a simple task made meaningful by the love she stitched into every repair. The creations she leaves behind will remain treasured reminders of her creativity, generosity, and care.

Above all else, Sandy loved her family. They were the center of her world and her greatest source of pride and happiness. She cherished every opportunity to spend time with those she loved, celebrating milestones, creating lasting memories, and offering unwavering support through life's joys and challenges. The arrival of her first great-grandchild Amelia put a bright spot in her heart. Her warmth, generosity, kindness, and sense of humor touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Though Sandy's presence will be greatly missed, the love she shared, the lessons she taught, and the memories she created will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends for generations to come.

Survivors include her husband JD of 62 years; one son Jeff Koechner (Betsy) of Tipton, MO, two grandchildren, Ethan Koechner (Taylor) of Wright City, MO, Layne Elliott (Spencer) of Lee’s Summit, MO, one great-granddaughter, Amelia Elliott; one sister, Patsy Lybarger (Lanny), of Brunswick, MO.

Sandy was preceded in death by both of her parents.

A prayer service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the Meisenheimer-Page-Dady Funeral Home in Tipton, with inurnment to follow in St. Andrew Catholic Cemetery. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Donor’s Choice.