Sandra Jo Valadez

Sandra “Sandy” Jo (Howell) Valadez sashayed into this world on January 2, 1963, in Kansas City, KS, and left us with a smile on March 8, 2025, at the age of 62. A woman who knew how to make an exit, she passed away in the same city where her story began, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Sandy was a seasoned cashier, a job that allowed her to charm customers with her quick wit and friendly banter – all delivered with her signature smile. Beyond her work, she found joy in simple pleasures: turning up the volume on her favorite tunes, dancing like nobody was watching (and trust us, they were), and flirting with Lady Luck at the slot machines. Her heart was fullest when she was surrounded by her family and friends, especially while playing and sharing a giggle with her nephews, nieces and grandchildren or snuggling in her recliner with her little dog by her side.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Billy Don Howell and Bobbie Movolene Kuhns, as well as her infant sister, Tina Howell. She is survived by her loving older sister Bobbie (Chris) Lang, son Robert (Amanda) Howell, grandson Damion Howell, beloved granddaughter Alexis Howell, precious great-granddaughters Eliana and Aria Landeros, and many adored nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Sandy’s life will be announced at a later date, where stories will be shared, music will play, and one can only hope there will be a slot machine nearby as we remember a woman who lived life with a sparkle in her eye and a song in her heart.