Sandra "Sandy" Jean Ingrid Gryder, 86, of Adrian, Missouri, formerly of Rockford, Illinois, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Monday, January 19, 2026, at Overland Park Regional Medical Center. Per her wishes, no services are scheduled at this time. 

Sandy was born on July 14, 1939, to Frederick and Hazel (Johnson) Zitzke in Rockford, IL. Sandy was a graduate of East High School in Rockford, IL, and worked for Aircraft Systems, as their Office Manager, before she retired in 2004. Sandy married her beloved husband and best friend, James "Mike" Gryder, on August 15, 1959. They were married for 56 amazing years. Sandy and Mike were long time members of the Lithuanian Club in Rockford, IL.

Family was the first priority and the source of much joy and happiness as she watched her family grow and prosper over the years. Decades of camping with family, good friends, and children was a special time and joy in their lives. A lifelong favorite spot was Long Lake in Wisconsin. Many good times were had fishing, camping, and just enjoying life. 

Sandy loved being a member of her card club where she made many life-long friends. She loved nature and looked forward to springtime when her family planted flower and vegetable gardens. Sandy also enjoyed watching the birds visiting their feeders outside her window. Sandy touched many lives and will be missed by all.

Sandy is preceded in death by her parents and her husband. She is survived by her children: Lisa Edwards of Pensacola, Florida; James (Ruth) Gryder of Rockford, IL; and Amy (Alan) Anderson of Adrian, MO; grandchildren: Benjamin (Sarina) Edwards, Matthew (Lindsey) Edwards, AJ (Paige) Anderson, Noah Gryder, Ryan (Alicia) Carlton, Abby (Chris) Martin, Sadie (Cody) Fowler; and 12 great-grandchildren: Quinton, Jameson, Ruby, Rhett, Zander, Lilliana, Josephine, Evelyn, Tyler, Dylan, Ada, and Albert.