Sandra "Sandy" Mae Bluemel

Mrs. Sandra “Sandy” Mae Bluemel, age 87, of Murfreesboro, TN, passed away Saturday, August 22, 2026. Born in Chicago, Illinois, she was the daughter of the late Richard and Alice Bournonville.

Sandy is survived by her loving husband of 65 years, Donald Bluemel; children, Ted (Brandi) Bluemel, Robin (Lane) McCannon, Dale (Traci) Bluemel, and Kevin (Heather) Bluemel; grandchildren, Madison Bluemel, Austin Bluemel, McKenzie (Brady) Schwartz, Savanah (Nathan) Luna, Kaitlyn (Dominic) Kallas, Natalie (Lucas) Hagen, Taylor Bluemel and her fiancé Ethan Harsted, Shane (Mari) McCannon, Morgan (Josh) Gilbert, Landon (Erynn) Bluemel, and Reagan (Noah)Pickelsimer; and great-grandchildren, Everly Pickelsimer, Lincoln Pickelsimer, Adaline Schwartz, Isabella Hagen and two more on the way; and sister-in-law, Judy Couris.

Sandy lived a life defined by love, kindness, and an unwavering conviction in her faith in Jesus Christ. She touched and influenced so many young lives through Bible schools and years of teaching Sunday School. Her faith was not simply something she believed, it was something she lived every day. She lived a long and productive life and defied many medical prognoses over the last several months. She took on cancer and, more than once, looked it squarely in the face and defeated it when, beyond all expectations, it should have taken her much sooner. She fought with courage, determination, and faith. We know beyond a shadow of a doubt that she is now rejoicing with our Savior in Heaven. And if we had to guess, she is probably already teaching everyone up there how to sing “Father Abraham.” 

We now remember her in all her glory—watching old videos of her dancing, laughing, and sharing her words of wisdom. Her faith was a central part of her life, and she faithfully taught Sunday School for 40 years. Sandy also volunteered at the Pregnancy Center, where she counseled young women and encouraged them to choose life for their precious babies.

She had a creative spirit and a love for crafting and sewing, often making special knick-knacks, including her infamous “eye” pads, as well as unforgettable Halloween costumes for her grandchildren. She also found great joy in gardening and had a tender heart for animals, caring for any creature she encountered—from pigs and dogs to birds.

Her legacy will live on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and through the countless lives she touched along the way. She will be deeply missed until the day we see her again in Heaven.

Until then, Mom, keep dancing, keep singing, and keep teaching them “Father Abraham.” We love you.