Sandra “Sandy” Sue Darling, age 80, passed away Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, at Henry Ford Jackson after a long illness, with her family by her side. Sandy was born June 28,1945, at Fort Dodge IA, but was a Jackson resident since 1953. She was a member of the Jackson High School Class of 1963, and the Western Michigan University Class of 1967. In 1967, she married Mike Darling, the love of her life, and they began their teaching careers together at Northwest Schools. Sandy left teaching temporarily to raise her daughters and enjoyed being a school “room mother,” girl scout leader, and was an avid crafter who loved gifting her creations to her family and friends. She later returned to teaching, this time at Jackson Public Schools, from where she retired in 2005. Sandy was preceded in death by her parents, George A. And Mary B. Stoecker, and her brother, Gerry Stoecker of Midland. She is survived by her husband and soulmate of 58 years, Michael J. Darling, daughters Heather Darling of Grand Rapids, Laura (Charles) Betit of Maine, and beloved grandson Alexander Betit. Sandy is also survived by her brothers-in-law and close friends Gregory Darling and Todd Whitefleet of Holland, her beloved nieces and nephews, Vicki (Rick) Bradley of Grand Rapids, Larry Stoecker of California and Rick (Terri) Stoecker of Midland, and her much loved canine companion Hamish. Sandy derived great joy from celebrating holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions, baking, decorating, and creating fabulous meals that were enjoyed by family and friends. It didn’t matter what the occasion was, she had the decorations and meals to make it special and joyful for all. Family was always the most important element in her life. The family would like to give special thanks to good friends Barry and Sandy Myers, whose steadfast help and caring have helped us through these difficult times, to the Marsh Family of California and Browns Lake, for their more than 60 years of friendship and support, and to the many doctors, nurses, and CNAs who cared for Sandy over her last months. Your caring and kind words meant so much to Sandy and our family during these challenging times. Rest in peace, our sweet Sandy. She will be terribly missed but we celebrate her liberation from pain, discomfort, worries, and fear. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the Old Friends Senior Dog Rescue of Mount Juliet, TN (ofsds.org). No services are planned at this time. The family will honor Sandy with a private memorial at a later date. Arrangements with Purse Funeral Home. www.PurseFuneralHome.com
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