Sandra Diane Hastings
1939 – 2024
Sandra Diane (Smart) Hastings passed away peacefully at home on October 24, 2024, surrounded by her family. She was born on January 5, 1939, in Windsor, Ontario, to William Leonard Smart and Erma Grace Elizabeth (Wilson) Smart. Sandra was the younger of two children, with her older brother, Wilson Harvey Smart, now deceased. Sandra's childhood took her from Windsor, Ontario, to Detroit, Michigan, Toccoa, Georgia, and eventually to Carthage, New York. She excelled in school and was active with the youth in the Episcopal Church. Her first job was at the local movie theater in Carthage. She went on to study at Syracuse University and later at Florida State University.
Shortly after Christmas in 1958, Robert Hastings, the love of her life, proposed, and they were married on January 17, 1959. Their union spanned over sixty-five years. With Robert's career as an Air Force officer, Sandra faced many long separations, starting right after their honeymoon. Each reunion was a source of great joy for them both. Sandra was dedicated to her family, raising her five children through school, activities, and church, all while creating a home full of laughter, love, and the occasional sibling quarrel. The family's journey took them across the country, from Florida to Maryland, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Texas, and finally back to Oklahoma, all due to Robert's flying career. Her definition of family was broad, often including college students who needed a temporary home and foster children while living in Texas.
Every evening dinner was a mandatory attendance event that brought the family together regardless of school, hobbies, or friends. Food, served hot, as a complete meal was a priority for her. Entry to the kitchen during operations was a perilous venture as her meticulous preparations were not to be interrupted. She was a splendid cook and took pride in ensuring that everyone went away satisfied. Care for family was her love language.
She was fiercely independent and raised five children to prize independent thought and self-sufficiency. She was pleased to see that all of her children achieved a college degree. This group was boisterous, and each delighted in following their own path, but all felt loved and loved one another under her care.
Sandra's commitment to service extended over sixty-five years. She proudly fulfilled the roles of wife, mother, homemaker, working parent, and volunteer throughout her lifetime. As a lifelong Episcopalian, she also served the church in various positions and, alongside Robert, helped found a school in Maryland. Sandra volunteered for many years including as an Integris Hospital Volunteer, serving those in need with compassion and dedication. Her dedication to service and extensive experience eventually led her to leadership roles and earned her recognition and awards within the Auxiliary.
Despite all challenges faced, Sandra was surrounded by generous, caring, and thoughtful people, a reflection of her servant heart. Sandra's family would like to thank all those who have provided support, friendship, care, and kindness over the years, especially the last few, who lovingly tended to Sandra with patience, dignity, and grace.
Sandra is survived by her beloved husband, Robert, five children and their spouses, twelve grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
A service to honor her life will be held at All Souls Episcopal Church, 6400 N Pennsylvania Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73116, on Saturday, November 2, at one in the afternoon. Interment will be at Gracelawn Cemetary in a private ceremony prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers or gifts donations may be made to the Integris Health Foundation for the Volunteer Auxiliary Fund Raising Account.