Sandra Mae Gold, beloved aunt, great-aunt, and cherished friend to all who knew her, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on June 14, 1938, in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, Sandra, known fondly to her family as "Aunt Sandi", lived a life rich with warmth, laughter, good food, and great adventures all over the world.

Sandi built a distinguished career in retail, beginning at Vandervroot's, where she developed a gift for connecting with customers and an eye for style. When Vandervroot's closed in 1969, she brought her talents to the iconic Stix, Baer and Fuller department store, where she rose to manage both the Men's Department and later Cosmetics. She remained a steadfast and beloved presence through the store's transition to Dillard's, retiring after decades of dedicated service.

While Sandi never married, she was anything but alone, she was the heart of a sprawling, adoring extended family. Her door, her table, and her heart were always open. A consummate foodie, she delighted in trying new restaurants and experimenting with recipes, turning every shared meal into a small celebration. She loved all types of music, especially Jazz and She loved to travel!

A proud and passionate St. Louis sports fan, Sandi had a deep love for her hometown teams. She was a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan — following both the beloved baseball Cardinals and the football Cardinals with fierce loyalty. She also cheered enthusiastically for the St. Louis Rams, sharing in the city's pride during their time in the Gateway City. Game days were always a little brighter with Sandi's enthusiasm and team spirit.
Sandi was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas R. Gold Sr. and Odelia Gonzales Gold; her older sister, Jackie Stroder, and Jackie's husband William Stroder; her younger brother, Thomas R. Gold Jr., and his wife Barbara Ann Gold (née Lamers); and her nephews Scott Stroder and Steven Stroder.

She is survived by her beloved nieces: Renee Lewandowski (née Stroder) and husband Mark; Sarah Davis (née Gold) and husband Bobby; Kristen Moore (née Gold); and Tricia Lograso (née Gold) and husband Mickey, and Suzy Stroder, wife of the late Scott Stroder.
Her great-nieces and great-nephews: Jason Stroder, Brandon Stroder & Jacquline, Chad Stroder & AJ , Max & Bri Lewandowski, Tyler Lewandowski & Lizzi Hammack, Taylor and Brian Melton, Ryan Davis, Olivia Davis, Alec Davis, and Jack Davis, Mairin Moore, and Teagen Moore — each knew the particular joy of being loved by Aunt Sandi.

She is also survived by her great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews: Riley Stroder & daughter Monroe, Elsie Melton, Hudson Melton, Bennett Melton, Elanor Melton, Adalai Melton, Madeline Lewendowski, Henley Scott Stroder, Jayce Stroder, and Avery Stroder.

Sandra is also survived by many special friends who lived life with her to the fullest! SO many memories made over shared meals and travels.
Sandra Mae Gold leaves behind a family that is larger, louder, and more loving because she was in it. She will be remembered for her generous spirit, her adventurous palate, her world travel, and her unwavering loyalty to her St. Louis Cardinals and Rams. She was one of a kind, and she will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers to make donations to the Alzheimer's Association or Ronald McDonald House