Sandra Hay Bell went home to be with the Lord on April 15, 2024, in Altamonte Springs, Florida at the age of 83. She fought a year- long battle with MDS (a bone marrow dysfunction requiring frequent blood transfusions and other treatments to boost her immune system).
Sandy was an immensely giving person and always had time to help her friends, connect with her grandchildren or visit a neighbor in need. She always enjoyed attending church, playing bridge with the girls, Women on Mission group, lunch with her close neighbor Theresa and spending time with her dear
friend John. As was her wish, she passed peacefully and finished strong as they say, winning at cards and cribbage with friends and family just two days before she died.
Her faith in Jesus was central to her life and she was devoted to her church, family, and friends. She loved her family deeply, enjoyed hours of puzzling, playing games and was a Mercy Me groupie attending several concerts throughout her life. Sandy took pride in her home and landscaping, winning Yard of the Month multiple times. She was a sweet soul who wanted to help others and was loved by many.
Born in New London, CT on April 29, 1940, to Hazel and Hayward Poole. Studied Mathematics at UConn for 2 years. She married her sweetheart Lt. John R. Hay USCG in June of 1961 and raised two children living the American suburban dream in Long Island. Later they decided to take a bold step forward and start a horse farm in Northeastern Pennsylvania. They felt this would be best for their children and never looked back. After their two children moved on with their lives and left the farm, they relocated to Aiken, SC and finally settled in Florida for the last 30 years. Sandy had many diverse jobs including working on Wall Street, a horse farm owner, and a vending machine entrepreneur.
Her husband preceded her on Nov 30, 2002, after 41 years of marriage. She found love again by marrying Stephen W. Bell in 2008. He preceded her on Oct 9, 2017. She was also preceded in death by her parents. Sandy is survived by her son, Brian Hay (Lynn) of Southlake, TX; her daughter, Deborah Jeffrey (Steve) of Lititz, PA; four grandchildren, Drew Jeffrey (Danae) of Cedar Rapids, IA; Austin Jeffrey of Chicago, IL; Brandon and Christopher Hay of Southlake, TX and sister- in-law Joan (Nicholas) Salvatore. Also survived by stepson Eric Bell (Sheli), granddaughters Abigail and Katelyn; stepson Scott Bell and brother-in-law Dan Bell (Trish).
Celebration of Life service will be held on May 25, 2024, at 11am at First Baptist Sweetwater Church, 3800 Wekiva Springs Road, Longwood, Florida. All friends and family are welcome and encouraged to attend. In lieu of flowers please consider donations to First Baptist Church.