Sandra Nell Jay

Sandra Nell Herod Jay

Sandra was born in Beeville, Texas on April 9th, 1941, to Ellis "Bill" and Audrey Herod. After growing up in Beeville with her younger brother, James, she attended and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education from Texas A&M University in Kingsville. While in college, Sandra met and married James Jay. Together they had two daughters, Stephanie and Jennifer (Jordan) who kept their lives full and eventually filled their homes with five grandchildren, then six great grandchildren and counting.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Audrey Herod, and her daughters Stephanie Hill and Jordan Fisher.

Her dedication to serving others led Sandra to teaching in Kingsville, the Aransas County School District then, finally moving to Gruene, Texas where she worked for the state as a Social Worker for the Welfare System.

Sandra, also known as "Nana" to her many grandchildren, great grandchildren and others, was a quiet, fun loving adventurer enjoying travel to many countries, even living in Germany for over a year. Her home was adorned with beautiful works of artistry from all her travels, and she was always able to provide a fascinating story when asked about each one. Sandra always had a smile and an encouraging word, as well as a quirky sense of humor, that she shared readily with those around her. Loving all children instantly, she doted on her grandkids and great grandchildren indulging their many whims while always generously giving them her time. One never saw arrogance, selfishness or anger in Sandra but rather a quiet steadiness and strength rarely found in most. She loved deeply with a strong sense of loyalty and grace, helping whenever, however and wherever she could, rarely asking for help herself.

 After the death of her father in 2003, Sandra became the primary caregiver of her mother, Audrey, living with her for almost 13 years and then caring for her daily after she entered the nursing home.
Sandra was an active member of Coastal Oaks Church serving regularly, whether it was wrapping Christmas gifts for kids, assisting at Vacation Bible School, helping those in the monthly food drive, or any other place she was needed. She thoroughly enjoyed her Silver Sneakers workouts as well as serving and attending community parades and festivals.

Sandra leaves behind her loving brother, James Herod (Georgia), Sons-In-Law David Hill (Ina) and Terry Fisher (Dawn), Grandchildren, Christopher Bowen (Valerie), Whitney Johnson, Michael Hill (Gloria), Grayson Fisher, Camden Fisher and Aaron Johnson, as well as a hoard of great grandchildren, and many dear, dear friends. 

Her love knew no bounds and those who loved her loved without expectation...we all loved her simply because she was "Nana"
Sandra went Home to be with the Lord on December 23, 2023. In her last moments, Sandra gave God the glory, trusting in Jesus. We all pray that Jesus' love & grace will continue to impact the lives of others through Sandra and her testimony.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 Friday, December 30th at Coastal Oaks Baptist Church in Rockport, Texas. The burial will be held at 3:00 p.m. at Glenwood Cemetery in Beeville, Texas.