Sandra L. "Sandy" Ernst

Sandra L. “Sandy” Ernst, 76, of Indianapolis, passed away unexpectedly at her residence on December 12, 2021. She was born in Lafayette, Indiana on August 11, 1945 to the late Harold and Helen (Howarth) Allen. Sandy married Donald G. Ernst on July 12, 1969; he preceded her death on March 3, 2021.

Sandy was a 1967 graduate of Indiana University School of Nursing in Indianapolis. She went on to become a registered nurse with the Marion County Health Department and Indianapolis Public Schools, where she retired in 2000. Sandy was a natural-born caretaker, so she could not sit idle long in her retirement. She soon went to work with Better Indy Babies, helping lower income and at-risk mothers in Indianapolis through their pregnancies.

Although nursing and caretaking were some of her passions, Sandy also was an avid reader, from historic fiction to personal growth development, it was a normal occurrence to find her with a book in her hand. If it wasn’t a book, it was definitely a grandchild. Sandy was a devoted grandmother who took pride in taking care of them, teaching them, and attending every school or sporting event. She enjoyed baking with her grandchildren; her delicious sugar cookies and famous buckeyes will be greatly missed, along with her special Italian cream cake she made for everyone’s birthdays. She actively participated in Toastmasters and overcame her fear of public speaking, as well as Women Within, where Sandy helped other women with personal development and overcoming adversity.

A devoted Catholic, Sandy was an active parishioner at St. Jude Catholic Church where she participated in funeral meals and Young at Heart. Sandy will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who was always loving. Anyone who knew her knew that she cared for others more than herself; her selflessness and gentle spirit will live on in those she leaves behind.

Survivors include her children, Steve (Amanda) Ernst and Brenda (Bradd Stoops) Ernst; her grandchildren, Sandro Guzman, Thalia Guzman, Kallan Stoops, Dresden Ernst, Audriana Stoops, and Sloane Ernst; and her brother, Jim (Minnie) Allen.

Along with both of her parents, and her husband of 51 years, Donald G. Ernst, Sandy is preceded in death by her brother, Ken Allen and her sister, Judy Ferrell.

Sandy’s Life Celebration® Visitation will be Monday, December 20, 2021, 5 to 8 PM, at the O’Riley Funeral Home, 6107 S. East Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46227. Prayers will be said at 9:30 AM Tuesday, December 21, 2021, at the funeral home. The Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 AM in St. Jude Catholic Church. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Cemetery. O’Riley Funeral Home is serving the Ernst family. www.ORileyFuneralHome.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.