Sandra J. Hammer

A Celebration of Sandy’s life will be held at a later date.

Sandra Jo “Sandy” Hammer, 72, of Highland, IL, passed away Thursday, March 2, 2023, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, IL.

Sandy was born Dec. 19, 1950, in Highland, IL, to Raymond Eugene and Marion Adele (nee Schmiedeke) Schwend. She married Thomas Hammer on Dec. 23, 1969, in Trenton, IL.

Sandy was a lifelong Highland resident, attending Highland elementary and high school, graduating in 1969. She was a member of the Evangelical United Church of Christ. She was a stay-at-home mom as she raised her two daughters and became a Girl Scout leader.

In 1981, she joined the family-owned business, Schwend’s Ready-Mix Concrete, working as a secretary in Highland and Troy until she retired in 2012.

She loved caring for her flowers and plants and was admired for taking care of other people. She was loved by everyone for her selflessness and for putting everyone’s needs before her own. She was loved by her many Dachshund pets, including Sammy, Trixie, Ween and Sabrina. Nothing compared to Sandy’s love for family. She adored her grandchildren and loved attending their sporting and social events. Sandy loved traveling with family, especially to Hawaii and Florida.

She is survived by her husband, Tom Hammer, Highland, IL; daughters, Michelle (Clinton) Tompkins, Highland, IL, Vanessa (Michael) Conley, St. Louis, MO; granddaughters, Elaina Tompkins, Highland, IL and Ella Conley, St. Louis, MO; one grandson, Jon Conley, Nashville, TN; sisters, Terri (Steve) Holt, Highland, IL, Jeanne (Gary) Huber, Trenton, IL; brother, David (Carol) Schwend, Highland, IL; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Marion Schwend; brother, Richard Schwend.

Memorials made be made to the Madison County Humane Society or organization of donor’s choice.

A Celebration of Sandy’s life will be held at a later date.

Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, IL.