Sandra G. “Sandy” Root, 90, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 25, 2023 at The Glen at Willow Valley Communities, where she had resided for the past 15 years. Sandy was born in Lancaster, PA on February 11, 1933, the daughter of the late Charles and Helen (Johnson) Groome. She was preceded in death by her husband Ralph L. Root, Jr. in 2012, and by her son Douglas G. Root in 2021.
Sandy graduated in the class of 1950 from McCaskey High School and married Ralph a year later, in April 1951. They were married for 61 years. She was a member of St. John Neumann Catholic Church and, for many years, was an active member of JaneCees. Throughout the years, she and Ralph enjoyed traveling and gathering with friends at Meadia Heights Golf Club, Conestoga Country Club, and the Hamilton Club. Additionally, every Friday night, you could likely find them enjoying dinner at Lombardos! Sandy was an avid Bridge player and was an exceptional cook and hostess. Many friends and family anticipated and enjoyed Sandy and Ralph’s annual Christmas party, and to be a guest at her Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts was a celebrated experience!
Sandy is survived by two daughters, Debbie Musso (Frank) and Kelley Lutz (Harry), both of Lancaster. She was a grandmother to and survived by Michael Musso (Jody), Zachary Musso (fiancée Lizz Chin), Devon Groff (Matthew), Taylor Landis (Allen), Ella Root and Jack Root. She is survived by 4 great-grandchildren, Mara, Jocelyn, and Madeline Musso and Bodie Groff. Her sisters, Gloria Steckel and Jean Stauffer predeceased her.
The family wishes to thank the many caregivers and staff at The Glen at Willow Valley Communities for their compassion, kindness and exemplary care throughout her many years of residence there. We are grateful for all you have done for her and for us.
Interment at Conestoga Memorial Park will be private. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at a later date, an announcement of which will appear in LNP with further details. Memorial contributions may be made to the Willow Valley Brunner Nurse Education Fund, 100 Willow Valley Lakes Drive, Willow Street, PA 17584, Attn: Brunner Nurse Education Fund.
Marge trou says
Dear Debbie and Kelley,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Althought the loss of a love one is most difficult, but what a blessing knowing your mother is not at peace. We have many fond memories of the “old neighborhood ” and still remember vistng your parents whenthey first move to Willow Valley.
Peace,
Dick and Marge Trout
Kathryn Heckles says
Debbie and Kelly,
I was sorry to see the obituary for your mother in today’s newspaper. I have fond memories of being your babysitter when you lived on Lemon St. Sandra and Ralph were great, and you girls were fun to watch! My condolences to you both.
Sincerely,
Kathy Bitzer Heckles
Kim Lemon says
Dear Debbie and Kelley and Family…
What an elegant, beautiful woman! May the memory of Sandy be eternal.
I remember the sleepovers at the Root household on Butler Avenue back in the early 70’s. . Nappie and French toast in the morning, with freshly laundered shirts hanging in the basement.
“Watch Mrs. Root! Debbie and I are going to do a cheer!”
Sandy and Ralph were big supporters of the cheerleaders of Manheim Township.
Mrs. Root was kind and funny and treated me like a third daughter.
We do not understand the perfect ways of God, but we must surrender to divine will and purpose… always keeping confidence in God.
Peace. Your mother stands before her Creator with a grateful heart for a family like you. Kim Lemon
Stacy Heistand says
Kelley , Taylor & Family ,
We are deeply sorry for the loss of your mother and grandmother. In moments like these, it is important to hold onto the happy memories you shared with her. Remember the times you spent together fondly and keep them close to your heart. It is comforting to know that a part of her will always be with you. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Stacy Heistand,
Asset Strategy Retirement Plan Consultants, LLC
Diane DeBord says
Dear Kelley and Debbie,
I remember Your dear mom when she and your dad came to PrePlan their funeral services and they requested me. She was so nice and so pretty and I can only imagine what a wonderful mom she was. I know you girls were so attentive to her at Willow Valley. There must be an element of relief with her passing, and I can bet she and your dad are reunited in heaven!
Love,
Diane
Deborah B. Everett says
Dear Debbie and Family,
It has been many years since we have last been in touch, but in reading about your Mother, I just had to send my deepest sympathy. Saying farewell to our mothers is so very hard, but eventually the wonderful memories will provide lasting comfort.
Keeping you close in my thoughts and prayers,
Deborah Everett (formerly Shertzer)
North Andover, MA