Sandra Elinor Steele of Laurel passed away on Jan. 13, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loving family. Sandra was born on Jan. 25, 1949, in Salisbury to the late Walter and Ruth Carey.
She was a 1967 graduate of Laurel High School, and after high school she dedicated her career to children and education. Sandra worked for Wee Wisdom Preschool for many years, teaching Children’s Church at the Nazarene Church as well as babysitting. She was loved and respected by many of her students and enjoyed seeing them through the years and hearing how much she meant to them.
Sandra dedicated her life to serving others; she was a lifetime member of the Laurel Fire Department Auxiliary where she held several offices and served on numerous committees, member of the Delmarva Fireman’s Association and volunteered at the Laurel Library. Being an Avon representative was a passion of hers; she faithfully delivered the beauty supply orders with her husband each week to customers.
Most of all, her favorite thing was to spend time and spoil her grandchildren who she loved with all her heart. Sandra is survived by her loving husband, Elmer Steele; daughters Arlene Wentz (Bill), Denise Steele, Karen Cooper (Shane); grandchildren, Steven (Khrystyna), Courtney (Jesse), Ashlyn, Taygen, Dawson and Gannon; great-grandchildren, Kinsley and Myles; sisters, Ellen Hudson, Beatrice Tucker; and brother, Roy Charles Carey (Tammy). Several nieces and nephews also survive her.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brothers, Paul Carey and Durand Carey.
A special thank you for the support and care from VITAS Healthcare. A viewing will be held on Saturday, Jan. 24, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home, 700 West Street, Laurel, Delaware 19956. Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. Pastor Scott Conn and Pastor Bob Hudson will officiate. Interment will follow in Laurel Hill Cemetery. A reception with food and fellowship will be held at the Laurel Fire Department following the graveside service.
Online condolences may be sent to www.hsdfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of the Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home in Laurel.