Sandra Lovely, 67

Sandra Lovely, 67, passed away August 30, 2026, in Knoxville, from liver and kidney failure stemming from diabetes.

Sandy was born in Germany while her father was in the US Air Force. She and her siblings spent most of their early years in England, where she forged a lifelong friendship with the Clappers, another American military family there. Even after Sandy’s family moved to Campbell County, TN, her love of travel and other cultures remained, and led to her 27-year career as an Oneida High School Spanish, French, and ESL teacher. She led many student trips to Europe and joined many friend and family adventures to the UK, Paris, Costa Rica, Guadalupe and other Caribbean isles. Besides travel, Sandy loved Dwight Yoakam, the Rolling Stones, movies, and Pepsi.

Sandy never married, preferring instead to be the “cool aunt” to her 8 nieces and nephews (Evan, Scott, Mary Camille, Jonathan, Julia, Kat, Anna, and Reese), and serving as a stern but fun surrogate parent when needed. Her niblings have fond memories of shrieking with delight while holding hands and rushing into the cold waves of Hawaii and the warm waves of Orange Beach, AL; going to plays in London’s West End; and being re-staked the dollar entry fee in family poker games.

After retirement, Sandy moved in with her elderly parents and helped care for them until they passed away earlier this year. Sandy is survived by her older sister Kathy Rhodes (David) and her younger brothers Mick Lovely (Laurie) and Bill Lovely (Melissa).

The family would like to send special thanks to the Clapper/Weber clan of Albuquerque, NM, for their love, support, and physical presence during this difficult time for Sandy and the family. They were and will always be a true second family.

Sandy requested no memorial service. Anyone wishing to honor Sandy might consider donating to a teacher’s classroom wish list in her honor.

Arrangements by Cross-Smith Funeral Home

Condolences for the family may be given at http://www.cross-smithfuneralhome.com