October 5, 1951 – April 22, 2025
Sandra “Sandy” Sue Kerr, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, entered into eternal peace on April 22, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family and the unwavering grace of her faith. Born on October 5, 1951, in Burlington, Iowa, Sandy was the cherished daughter of Tom and Betty Diewold and the third of twelve siblings in a lively and loving household.
Raised on the family acreage just outside Burlington, Sandy’s childhood was filled with animals, adventure, and most memorably, her deep love for horses—sparked by her beloved first horse, Princess. Her bond with nature would become a lifelong passion, reflecting her appreciation of God’s creation.
In high school, Sandy met the love of her life, Don Kerr, and the two later married on August 15, 1970. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising five children—Christy, Tyler, Sarah, Jonathan, and Hannah—in Burlington, where their children attended the Burlington Notre Dame schools. A devoted and nurturing mother, Sandy was a constant presence in their lives, choosing to stay home with her children until they were all in school. She later worked as a kindergarten aide at St. Paul’s Elementary School, where she lovingly touched the lives of countless students over her 13-year career, each Christmas gifting her class with a handmade ornament and teaching them to tie their shoes.
Sandy’s faith was the guiding light of her life. Raised Catholic, she grew deeply in her spiritual journey through scripture study, prayer groups, and service to her church and community. Known for her powerful prayers, she passed her unwavering trust in God down to her children. “You are healed by the stripes of Jesus” and “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” were more than words—they were the heartbeat of her family’s spiritual foundation.
Her love didn’t end with her human family. Sandy had a special place in her heart for animals—especially horses, cats, and birds. In most recent years she enjoyed riding her sweet horses, KC’s Playgirl & Maggie. Her home was shared with her indoor cats,Lila & Yeti.
In 2010, Sandy and Don moved to Meridian, Idaho, where she continued her ministry of kindness—forming close bonds through church, scripture study, retreats, and her work with St. Vincent de Paul Society. Whether preparing meals from scratch, attending neighborly cocktail hours, or enjoying her backyard visitors, the neighborhood quails that she so lovingly named Dan & Marilyn Quail, Sandy’s warmth and hospitality shone brightly.
Sandy was a gifted artist and homemaker—an award-winning baker, master gardener, talented oil painter, skilled photographer, and beautiful singer. She created baby quilts and wedding quilts for loved ones, hand-painted Christmas ornaments, and always found time to draw horses with her grandchildren, who adored her. Her Monster Cookies were legendary, and her triple-layer carrot cake and apricot cheesecake were award-winning family favorites. Sandy shared her love of music with her children and her talents performing at church and school variety shows.
She loved to travel and marveled at the beauty of God’s world—from California’s redwoods to the shores of Sanibel Island. These trips, filled with shell collecting, sunsets, and simple joys, became treasured memories for her grandchildren and children alike.
In 2018, Sandy returned to the Midwest as her health declined. Through it all, she carried her illness with grace, courage, and her ever-gentle spirit. She moved into memory care on April 15, 2024. After the move, a note found in her home captured the essence of who she was:
“As a mother I soon realized that my heart was not my own, it was wherever my children are.”
Sandy is survived by her devoted husband of 54 years, Don Kerr; her five children Christy (Jason) Cross, Tyler (Debbie) Kerr, Sarah (Randy) Dravis, Jon (Liza) Kerr, and Hannah(Tyler) VanSandt; her 13 grandchildren who were the joy of her life, Max, Sam & Will Cross, Jacob, Justin & Alex Kerr, Jonah McDermed & Addi Dravis, Leo, Lily & Luke Kerr, Gavin & Oliver VanSandt; her siblings, Debbie Gadau, Jeff Diewold, Rita Diewold, Ted Diewold, Brian Diewold, Ben Diewold, Beth Reynolds, Tim (Doc) Diewold, Tina Shaner, Matt Diewold, and Jackie Diewold; numerous nieces and nephews, and countless friends who were blessed to know her.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and one niece, Amy Gadau.
We grieve her passing, but we do so with immense gratitude for the life she lived and the love she gave so freely. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and selfless devotion. Today, we imagine Sandy cradled in the arms of her Savior, surrounded by beauty, light, and perfect peace. Until we meet again, we carry her memory in our hearts and her spirit in our every step.
Thank you, Jesus, for sharing Sandy with us. We love you, Mom.
The celebration for Sandy will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at Good Shepherd Catholic Parish located at 12800 W 75thSt, Shawnee, KS 66216. The Rosary will begin at 10:30am with a visitation immediately following in the foyer of the church. The Funeral Mass to celebrate Sandy will begin at 12:00pm. A luncheon will be held at the church following the celebration of life services. All family and friends are welcome.