Sandra Lee Keene

Sandra was born on September 17, 1934, in West Attleboro, Massachusetts. She pursued her passion for education at DePauw University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Music and Education then on to receive her Master’s Degree from Peabody College in English and Special Education. She dedicated over two decades to teaching, specializing in special education as well as primary school instruction for first and fourth grades.

Faith played a central role in Sandra’s life. From 1968 until 2019, she and her husband, William E. "Bill" Keene, were actively involved with Hendersonville First Presbyterian Church. Sandra served as the church organist for many years. She was both the director of the youth choir and a member of the adult choir. She also contributed her time and talents to numerous church committees, embodying a spirit of service and devotion.

Sandra and Bill shared nearly 70 years of marriage, forming a loving and devoted partnership that was evident to all who knew them. In their retirement years, Sandra found great joy in tending to the many flower gardens surrounding their home on five acres in Hendersonville, Tennessee.

She is survived by her children, William S. Keene, Courtney F. Keene, and Gray Keene; her brother, Dr. Wesley Tower; and her sister-in-law, Joyce Burch. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill.

Sandra’s life was one of dedication—to her family, her faith, her students, and the beauty she cultivated around her. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.