Sandra S. "Sandy" Stutesman, 73, of Burlington, Kansas, passed away early Sunday, December 3, 2023, at Yates Center Health and Rehab.

Born in Kansas City, Kansas, Sandy was the chosen daughter of Arnold M and Genevieve (Ballard) Gaines of Emporia. She grew up in a family with a physically challenged brother and sister. Being the youngest, she learned to sign with the deaf, and many times came to the defense of her brother and sister. This is where she became compassionate when being around many people who crossed her path.

In the early 1960s, her sister became friends with the hard-of-hearing mother of her future intended. This developed into Sandy tagging along to the farm and eventually getting the attention of this young son. After a short courtship, Sandy became the bride of Franklin D. Stutesman on August 20, 1965. Even up to her last week, she shared and was proud of each of her 58 years with Frank.

Sandy gave her life to the Lord in 1975 and soon her three girls came to Jesus. She desired to have a Christian home. After her persistence and prayer, Frank came to the Lord in 1985. They have worked side by side in ministry for the last 39 years.

Her pride and joy was her day care center in Overbrook, where many families were touched by the Lord through her witness.

She fellowshipped with many through the years at Light of The World, Joyful Harvest in Topeka, Four Square in Abilene, and Lighthouse in Burlington. The last 14 years with the wonderful brothers and sisters at Lamont Wesleyan Church and Radiant Life.

Sandy was the proud mother of Kimberly (Tim) Kolb of Arkansas, Jennifer (Terry) Crevier of Missouri, Frankie (Ricky) Kirkby of Burlington. She also has eight grandchildren, one in heaven. Five great-grandchildren including her newest arriving in January 2024.

Sandy is preceded by one granddaughter Stevie Ray Kolb, her parents, five brothers and two sisters.

Funeral services will be held 1:30 P.M. Friday, December 8, 2023, at Jones Funeral Home in Burlington. Burial will follow in Bailey Cemetery northwest of Burlington. The family will meet with friends from 7:00 to 8:00 P.M. Thursday at Jones Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the God's Storehouse and may be sent in care of Jones Funeral Home, PO Box 277, Burlington, KS 66839.