02/25/2026
Abilene, Texas- Sandra Kay Bateman, 80, passed away February 20, 2026.
Graveside service will be 1pm Monday March 2, 2026 at Truscott cemetery.
Sandra Kay Massingill Bateman entered peacefully into the arms of her Savior on February 20, 2026, at Hendrick Medical Center in Abilene, Texas, with her sister Rhonda by her side, gently
holding her hand.
Sandra was born on September 16, 1945, in Quanah, Texas, to J. E. (Bud) Massingill and Ora Mae Eubank Massingill. She was born prematurely alongside her infant twin sister, Andra Fay Massingill. Andra lived only a few hours. Sandra remained in an incubator at the hospital in Quanah, Texas, for three months. From that fragile beginning, she grew to live a long and full
life.
She attended Gilliland schools before her family moved to Munday, Texas, where she graduated from Munday High School.
Sandra was blessed with many lifelong friends and was known for her warm and caring spirit.
She was musically talented, playing the clarinet and saxophone in the stage band, as well as singing and playing the piano. Music was one of her many joys.
She later made her home in Knox City, Texas, where she lived for many years and formed cherished friendships. Sandra enjoyed visiting with friends daily and was especially known for sending thoughtful cards for birthdays, illnesses, and holidays. In her quieter moments, she enjoyed needlepoint and crocheting, creating handmade pieces that reflected her patience and creativity.
Sandra fondly remembered her grandparents calling her "Sandy" as a child. A devoted Dallas Cowboys fan, Sandra faithfully watched every game on television — this was her team.
Sandra was employed by various businesses in Knox City throughout her working years. She was a devoted member of Knox City Methodist Church and treasured the kindness and fellowship of her church family. After relocating to Abilene, she attended Saint James United
Methodist Church. Her relationship with her Savior, Jesus Christ, was deeply important to her. Even when declining health prevented her from attending in person, she remained faithful in reading her Bible and watching Sunday worship services on television.
Sandra is survived by her sister, Rita Heuse (Bob) of Greer, South Carolina, and her sister, Rhonda Massingill of Abilene, Texas, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, J. E. (Bud) Massingill and Ora Mae Eubank
Massingill, and her infant twin sister, Andra Fay Massingill.
The family expresses heartfelt appreciation to the ICU staff at Hendrick Medical Center for their compassionate care and support. Deep gratitude is also extended to the staff of The Oaks at Radford Hills Healthcare Center for lovingly caring for Sandra for many years.
A viewing for Sandra will be held Monday, March 2, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Girdner Funeral Home in Abilene, Texas.
A graveside service will follow at 1:00 PM on Monday, March 2, 2026, at Truscott Cemetery in Truscott, Texas.
Arrangements are provided by Girdner Funeral Home in Abilene, Texas.
Sandra will be remembered for her faith, her musical gifts, her loyal friendships, and her loving heart. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Arrangements with Girdner Funeral Home, Abilene.
