Sandra Gail Hansford, 84, passed away unexpectedly on June 7, 2024, in Jacksonville, FL.
Sandy, the daughter of David R. Hansford and Gladys Buchanan, was raised in Jacksonville alongside her siblings Jack, Aletha, and Diane. She graduated from Landon High School and obtained her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Florida State University before earning her doctorate in education from the University of Florida. Sandy spent twelve years as a teacher and guidance counselor in the Duval County Public Schools before beginning a lengthy and celebrated career at the University of North Florida in 1973. She served as the Vice President for Student Affairs for several years before shifting her focus back to full time teaching and research. Additionally, Sandy was a mental health counselor and was especially proud of her work with children in Jacksonville’s foster care system.
Sandy was a lifelong champion of women and the arts. She was a founding member of the Women’s Center of Jacksonville and gave generously of herself and her resources to support their cause. A longtime resident of Ponte Vedra, Sandy was actively involved in the community and belonged to organizations such as the Ponte Vedra Inn and Club, the First Coast Cultural Center, and the Ponte Vedra Croquet Club. In recent years, her love of art extended beyond collecting as she discovered her passion and talent for creating her own paintings.
Sandy was the proud matriarch of her family and is survived by numerous nieces and nephews extending three generations, as well as her sister, Diane Pearce. In addition, she leaves behind countless close friends whom she loved dearly. She touched many lives, all of whom are better for having known her.
A celebration of Sandy’s life will be held on Saturday, June 22, 2024, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the First Coast Cultural Center, which is located at 6000B Sawgrass Village Circle in Ponte Vedra Beach. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Women’s Center of Jacksonville. Please visit her online Tribute at www.quinn-shalz.com.
