Sandy Smith's sense of humor, impeccable work ethic, and compassion for caring for others did not end in her death. Her legacy will live on through her beloved family. Sandra Kay (Snyder) Smith of Hanover, PA passed away peacefully in her home on Thursday, September 19, 2024 following a fearless 5 year battle with stage 4 colon cancer. Sandy was the loving wife of James (Jim) Smith with whom she celebrated 40 years in May. Born on July 31, 1956 in Gettysburg, Sandy was the daughter of the late Earle M. and Mildred G. (Shields) Snyder.

Sandy graduated from Hanover High School in 1974. Over the years Sandy worked for CH Reed, the Hanover Evening Sun, and Hanover Shoe. In the early 90's Sandy followed her passion for taking care of others and earned her Certified Nursing Assistant license. She initially worked for Homewood at Plum Creek and then spent years caring for her beloved "Jimmy" (the son of a family friend) before his passing in 2010. In October of 2010 Sandy joined the Visiting Nurses Association of Hanover & Spring Grove-first in Home Care Plus and most recently in their Home Health/Hospice Aide division. Sandy has been described as 'an angel on earth' and 'a beacon of hope' by those who knew and loved her in her role as a CNA. Sadly, Sandy needed to retire from the VNA in July due to the progression of her disease. The family wishes to express their immense gratitude for the care the VNA provided Sandy in her final days.

When she was not serving others, Sandy loved nothing more than spending time with her family and friends, especially her daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren. Spoiling all of them was her specialty, but she also served as a confidant and sounding board through all of life's ups and downs. She was loved and will be remembered for providing a listening ear and good advice, as well as a good hug and a good laugh. Recent trips to Alaska and Florida with her family created valuable memories and the last six years in a combined household have been priceless. Time with friends included playing cards and traveling to Las Vegas, Hawaii, Aruba, and most recently Niagara Falls.She will be missed for her ability to keep life in perspective, focusing on what is really important and problem solving the little things along the way. She was the best and we were the luckiest!

Sandy is survived by her husband, James (Jim) Smith, her daughter Melissa K. (Smith) Crabbs and husband Darrell F. Crabbs, Jr. of Hanover; her grandchildren Hunter Crabbs, Holden Crabbs, Lilian Crabbs, and Landry Crabbs; and her siblings John H. Snyder and wife Linda of Hanover and Louise G. Brady and husband Stephen of New Oxford. She was preceded in death by her siblings Earl R. Snyder, Kenneth I. Snyder, Ralph W. Snyder, Joyce A. Snyder, Carolyn U. Rickrode, and Susan D. Leonard.

A funeral service to celebrate Sandy's life will be held at 11AM, Saturday, September 28, 2024 at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 30 W. Chestnut Street, Hanover, PA 17331, with Pastor Faye Snyder officiating. A viewing and time to visit the family will be held at the church prior to the service from 9-11AM.

As this is a celebration of Sandy's life and she wanted nothing more than for her family and friends to be at peace with her passing, please be inspired to wear a touch of color in your clothing.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to the VNA of Hanover & Spring Grove, 440 Madison St., Hanover, PA 17331.

The Wetzel Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. has been entrusted by the family with the arrangements. To share memories and condolences, please visit www.wetzelfuneralhome.com.