Sandra Ann Riley, 85, of Zion, IL passed away on April 10, 2023 in Waukegan, IL surrounded by her family. She was born on December 4, 1937 in Kenosha, WI the daughter of Lawrence and Edith (Edholm) Jacobs. Sandy graduated from Zion Benton High School class of 1955, she then enrolled in Northwestern Nursing school. She worked for Abbott labs before opening her own business Sandy Handy Knitting Shop in Zion, IL, she then returned to Abbot as an executive assistant until she retired in 1999. She married James C. Riley on November 17, 1962 at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Wadsworth, IL. Sandy was a member of Lakeview Church, and was a superintendent of Sunday school, sang in choir, assisted in AWANA, and Vacation Bible School. She was also a member of Beach Bible Church, Grace Church, Lighthouse Community Fellowship.
Sandy loved to have adventures, she enjoyed antique shopping to new stores, and camping with her family. She was talented in many things especially playing piano, baking beautiful wedding cakes, and teaching others how to knit. In her spare time Sandy would read books and attend to her garden.
Sandy is survived by her husband; James Riley, children; Eileen (Steve) Clark, Larry (Olga) Riley; grandchildren, Jacob (Katie) Clark, Caleb Clark, Nicole (Noam) Smadja, Annie (Israel) Mann, David (Amber) Riley, Jonathan Riley, Elishai Riley; many great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.
She is preceded in death by her parents; first husband, David Buer; two sisters, Marjorie Greenwood, and Bernice Hughes.
Memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, April 16, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 5:00 p.m. at Congdon Funeral Home, 3012 Sheridan Rd., Zion, IL 60099.
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