Sandra K. Close

SALEM - Sandra K. Close, 78, passed away on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Grace Wood Senior Living of Salem.

Born October 1, 1946, in Huntington, WV, Sandy was the daughter of the late Hal and Euthella (Atkins) Wellman and moved to the Salem area as a child.

Sandy was a graduate of Salem High School. On December 31, 1969, she married George L. Close, and they celebrated 47 years of marriage, before his passing on March 20, 2017. Sandra worked several part-time jobs throughout her career, but her focus was being a dedicated homemaker and loving wife, mother, and grandmother.

Sandy was a longtime devoted member of the Southeast Friends Church, now known as Damascus Friends Church, Salem Campus. Her commitment to her faith was evident in her active participation in Bible study and her role as a Sunday School teacher. She was also a member of the Silver Sneakers. Sandy found joy in sewing, needlepoint, cooking, and spending time with her family.

Sandy's wonderful sense of humor and compassion for others will be lovingly remembered by her daughters, Julie (Randall) Horvath of North Jackson and Lynne (Shayne) Smeltzer of Lisbon; grandson, Senior Airman Cole Smeltzer of Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho; her sister and best friend, Denise Merriman of Winona; niece, Michelle (Michael) Hulsizer and their son, Dylan of St. Louis, Missouri; and nephew, Scott Merriman of Salem.

Family and friends will be received from 11 a.m. until noon, Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the Stark Memorial Funeral Home, 1014 E. State St., Salem, where a memorial service will follow at noon.

Memorial contributions may be made in Sandy's name to Ohio's Hospice, 1900 Akron Rd., Wooster, OH 44691.

If unable to attend, you may show your support by joining our complimentary "Hugs from Home" program at www.starkmemorial.com/hugs-from-home.

To view Sandy's obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.

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