Sandra Kay McGuinness

Sandra McGuinness, aged 62, of Pontiac, Michigan passed away on October 12, 2024 and a dynamic person who was a force of nature left this mortal plane. In addition to her parents and friends who passed before her, she is also now reunited with her beloved dogs Ruby and Lucy.

Born on May 26, 1962, Sandra Kay Miracle, affectionately known as Sandy, was a cherished and beloved figure for both her family and friends right from the start. She attended Avondale Schools in Auburn Hills, Michigan, where she grew up on Bessie Street with siblings and neighbors who brought her great joy.

Sandy took her roles as wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend very seriously and loved deeply. And when she became a mother to Ashley in 1988, and Catherine in 1992, her whole world forever changed for the better. Sandy fought hard to protect her daughters and provide for them, even when the challenges were many -- and she did it. Her daughters grew up to be amazing, educated, successful women who are now leading beautiful families of their own. At this, her life's greatest task, she excelled immensely. And words cannot describe how much she adored her grandchildren, who have already exhibited that they've inherited many of her attributes.

She worked for the Kroger Company of Michigan for many years as a deli clerk and it was there at work that she met Louis McGuinness, the love of her life. Their bond was a unique and powerful one; they were utterly devoted to one another. When she bounced back from her first stroke last year, her husband Louis and her children were there with her every step of the way. And as the more debilitating second stroke took a heavy toll through much of this year, Louis was constantly by her side and trying to make her smile.

Sandy's personality was infectious -- and memorable. She was independent, hilarious, strong-willed, quick-witted, and perceptive; she didn't put up with people's malarkey and when she had an opinion, she would absolutely let you know about that opinion. The sound of her laughter often filled any room she was in, and that sound will remain with many of us who had the honor to be treated to it during our time with her. And her creativity seemed to know no end. She'd crochet, she'd create bracelets, she'd paint, she'd upcycle furniture, she'd create "Rustbelt Roses" by painting hubcaps with her stepson Michael, decorating areas of Pontiac with them. Her shopping also seemed to know no end; she could do a number on a Joann Fabrics, a Dollar Tree, and a Salvation Army all in one swing, come up with four new creative projects she'd want to embark upon, and still be ready for a bonus trip to spend some of her Kohl's cash rewards. When it came to giving gifts, Sandy knew how to make the recipient feel very special and the gift's presentation with the wrapping, ribbons, bows, and boxes was legendary.

She is survived by her husband, Louis McGuinness; her daughters, Ashley Williams and Catherine Hofbauer; sons-in-law Patrick Williams and Thomas Hofbauer; stepson, Michael McGuinness; grandchildren Grayson Hofbauer, Addison Williams, and Sophia Hofbauer; six siblings, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Fred and JoAnne Miracle.

A visitation for Sandy will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Pixley Funeral Home, 3530 Auburn Road, Auburn Hills, Michigan 48326. The funeral service will follow immediately at 11:00 AM at the same location. All are welcome.

Her memory will forever be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of those who loved her -- and her spirit lives on through her spouse, her siblings, her children, her grandchildren, and her potential future great-grandchildren to come. Floral arrangements in celebration of her life are able to be received at Pixley Funeral Home ahead of the services.