Sandra Smith
Sandra Louise Smith, age 79, of Staples, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026.
Sandy was an amazing woman whose life was defined by her caring heart and the many ways she showed up for the people around her. She had a special gift for sewing and poured love into every stitch—whether quilting with dear friends, creating for her family, or donating handmade shirts to cancer patients to help bring them comfort during treatment.
Sandy was born on January 18, 1947 to Danvy and Beth Powell. She grew up in Big Falls, Minnesota, where she lived at the logging camp and attended elementary school. She later graduated from Littlefork High School in 1965. Continuing her education, Sandra attended Brainerd Technical College, where she studied dental assisting and graduated in 1968.
In 1969, Sandy moved to Staples, Minnesota, where she married Bill Smith in 1970 and built a life rooted in family, community, and service.
Throughout her life, Sandy was hardworking and dedicated. She worked at Carter Ringer, Pine County, Homecrest, and Fair Oaks, and also served her community by subbing for Staples-Motley School district. Wherever she worked, she was known for her reliability, kindness, and strong work ethic.
Sandy was actively involved in her church and spent many years as a member of the Leader Lions. She cherished time spent with her quilting ladies, where friendship, laughter, and purpose were always shared.
She was a devoted mother, grandma, and great-grandma, and nothing brought her more joy than supporting her children and grandchildren in all they did. Sandra had a deep love for cardinals, which brought her comfort and happiness throughout her life.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Danvy and Beth Powell; her first husband, Robert Bensch; and her beloved husband of 55 years, Bill Smith.
Sandra is survived by her children, Mike Smith of Frazee, MN; Shelly (Gil) Miller of Staples, MN; and Brian (Heidi) Smith of Staples, MN; her grandchildren, Christina Smith, Jeremy (Tori) Miller, Ashley (Josh) Ruzicka, Mathew Miller, Kaitlyn Smith, Eli Smith, and Kevin Miller; her great-grandchildren, Alice Miller, Jackson Bacon, Sonora Miller, Jameson Miller, and Stella Miller; her siblings, Janet Jones, Rosie Johnson, and Dwight (Dixie) Powell; and many nieces and nephews.
Sandy will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday February 13, 2026 at 2:00pm at Thomastown Covenant Church in Staples. A Visitation will begin at 12:00pm at the church. Funeral arrangements provided by Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Staples.
