Sally W. Blonigen, affectionately known as Sandy, born on August 22, 1943, in Swansboro, NC to Roy Walls and Lelia Hodges, passed away Saturday February 17, 2024 after a persistent battle with COPD.
Sandy’s journey through life was marked by her fiery personality, infectious laugh, warmth, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to her faith, family and friends. Growing up in the close-knit community of Martinsville, VA, Sandy was the embodiment of southern beauty, blue-collar grit, determination, and a love of life. Her childhood was filled with the adventures of rural Virginia with her two older brothers Richard and Robert Walls, first generation children of The Great Depression.
Sandy’s heart led her to David Blonigen, and the two were married in 1971, in a small ceremony that celebrated their shared love of life and adventure. Together, they embarked on a journey to raise Sandy’s two boys from a previous marriage, Carl and Robert. Her boys were her life and David was her champion. Professionally, Sandy was known for her role as a Teacher’s Assistant. She spent several years at Rosenwall School in Seminole County, FL where she left a lasting impact through her dedication to students and their special needs.
An avid reader of fiction novels, Sandy found joy in the simple things – a crossword puzzle, playing cards, watching her sons play sports, or the company of her beloved family and friends. She developed a love for Ireland in her golden years and travelled there several times. However, she was always the happiest when David and she made their annual pilgrimage to Wisconsin where they had a small cottage on Lake Shawano, their On Golden Pond.
Sandy is survived by her husband, David Blonigen, her children, Carl Quesinberry (Leah) Robert Quesinberry (Vanessa), her grandchildren, Devon, Austin, Cole, Bret and Gabe, and a wide circle of friends and relatives who were blessed to know her.
A Mass will be held on March 2, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Augustine Catholic Church in Casselberry, FL, as we will celebrate Sandy’s life and legacy.