Sandra D. Glatfelter, 84 of Lancaster, PA entered fully into the presence of the Lord on Tuesday, March 22, 2022, at home.
Born in Stillwater, PA on December 1, 1937, she was the daughter of the late Clyde and Edith (Force) Karns. She was a 1956 graduate of Benton High School and a 1959 graduate of the former St. Joseph Hospital School of Nursing, Lancaster. She resided in Lancaster for 63 years.
After graduating from nursing school, Sandra began working in the Operating Room at St. Joseph Hospital and remained there for 58 years, retiring on her 80th birthday from what was then UPMC Pinnacle Lancaster. She left behind an extraordinary legacy of care for both her patients and colleagues. In her retirement interview, she quoted “I hope I’ve touched patients’ lives; I hope I showed them the very best of care.”
Sandra, known as “mama bird” by many had a servant’s heart. Her life was a living example of the Bible verse “Abandon every display of selfishness. Possess a greater concern for what matters to others instead of your own interests.” Philippians 2:4
When she wasn’t caring for her patients at the hospital, she was devoting herself to family and friends, always putting everyone before herself. Sandra also enjoyed sewing, gardening, and attending the Fulton Opera House and the Lancaster Symphony Orchestra. She was a member of First United Methodist Church for 54 years and played in the handbell choir.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jere V. Glatfelter, sister, Eleanor JoAnn Karns Johnson, and brother, Kermit W. Karns. Surviving are two children: Melanie Duffy, Lancaster, and Mary Beth, wife of Jeffrey Sacks, Chalfont; four grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; and three siblings: Thomas Karns, wife Cindy, Elizabeth, CO, Diane, wife of John Ditty, Bloomsburg, and Richard Karns, wife Linda, Lightstreet.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a Celebration of Life Service at First United Methodist Church, 29 East Walnut St, Lancaster, 17602 on Saturday, April 23, at 11:00 a.m. The family will greet relatives and friends at the church from 10-11:00 a.m. and at a church luncheon immediately following the service. Private interment will be held at the convenience of the family.
Dale Duffy
Sandra was a saint and I loved her like my very own mother. I think about her often and l was blessed to have been a part of her life. I will miss her dearly as will many others who knew her. She has left an everlasting impression on me and will never be forgotten. Love always Mommabird.
Cindy Karns
She will be greatly missed, such a loving spirit.
April Seredych
RIP Sandy. You will be missed greatly. Your were a phenomenal person to work with. A true gem.
Joyce Hart
Sandy will be missed,. Her kindness and caring ways endeared her to everyone who knew her. Hopefully she will play bells in the heavenly choir.
Douglas G. Kaufman RPh
Indeed this says it all. She was the Rock for so many! “Her life was a living example of the Bible verse “Abandon every display of selfishness. Possess a greater concern for what matters to others instead of your own interests.” Philippians 2:4
Mary Murphy
Sandy was a great friend…a true professional and a fantastic Head Nurse!! Her quiet direct demeanor, and big smile, and hard work ethic will be remembered always.. she has been missed!!!
CINTHIA K GRAVER RATHVON
Melanie- I am so sorry your Mom passed away. She was so special and so are you for the love and care you gave her.
Joseph J. Storz
We are very saddened to hear of Sandy’s death. She was a true treasure at St. Joseph’s hospital. Donna and Joe Storz
Ana Buchanan
RIP Sandy. She was a great nurse and it was an honor to have worked with her. She always had a beautiful smile. I will miss you Sandy.
Liz Single
Mrs. G (Mama Bird) was another mom to me. I spent many moments at her dinner table hearing about her surgeries from the day (a little too much info at times!) and countless moments in the car going to school or church events. She was an integral part of my growing up years. She will be missed by many. Love you Mrs. G!
Diane DeBord
To the family of Sandy,,
I met Sandy at our church as we played in the handbell choir. She was a quiet , sweet lady who was quick to laugh when we made mistakes! And I made more than she did!
Also, I recall having surgery many years ago, and immediately prior to surgery, Sandy appeared at my bedside as my O.R. nurse, and I was so relieved to know she would be by my side. She even called me at home several days later to check up on me!! RIP dear Sandy; in some way, you will be always caring for someone!
Di DeBord
John English, MD
Hi Maribeth,
Remember your Mother fondly. She was there the day I started
at St Joseph Hospital in 1990 and my last day in 2018 and I think every day in
between. Always pleasant and accomodating under the daily stress.
God bless her.
Marty Brown
I met Sandy in August, 1956 when we entered Nursing School. We have stayed close through all these years. The Golden Girls will miss you greatly. Thank you for being a wonderful friend and roommate. Marty Brown
Anna Kirchner
So sorry to see of Sandy’s death. She was always a friendly face in the OR at St Joe’s when I worked. You are in my prayers
Jo Anne Farley
Maribeth, you and Ann were great buddies! I have only the fondest memories of your mother. I even saved her full front page LNP retirement from the hospital at 80. When I retired, I meant to hang out with your mom. Then came the pandemic! No excuse on my part! I was the loser!
She was the coolest of ladies!!
You two daughters were blessed!!
Peace and love,
Jo Anne Farley
Libby Echternach
MaryBeth and Family,
I am sorry for your loss. Praying for you and your family. May you always cherish your memories!
With love,
Libby
Dawn
So sorry for your loss. Sandy had a very special servants heart. She will be missed.Sincerely your friends at Wilshire Hills Lions Club.