Sandra Kay Astley

Sandra Kay (Adams) Astley, 82 of Indianapolis, IN; Noblesville, IN; Stuart, FL and Winter Garden, FL, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 9, 2026, in her beloved Hoosier state. Born August 16, 1943 in Indianapolis, Indiana, she is survived by her three children, Michael Canzian, Amy Astley and Anjelica Menossi, her grandchildren Gabriella, Ethan, Sienna, Luca, and Samara, her children-in-law Beatriz Canzian, Troy Menossi and Mimi Snow, and her extended family and friends. Her family takes tremendous solace in knowing she rejoins in heaven her loving husband of over 48 years, Samuel Curtis Astley Jr., her parents, Martha “Peggy” Adams and Raymond Guy Adams, her brother, Don Adams, and sister Carolyn Perry.

At the time of her passing, she was as sharp-witted and clear in memory as at any time in her long life, with an intellectual aptitude that shone in her passion for, and knowledge of culture – pop and otherwise – as well as history (with a focus on American and British history). Her heart shone in her unflinching pride in her family, her lifelong love for all things Disney (especially Walt Disney World), all things Christmas, all things Indiana and the Indianapolis 500 mile race.

To be a child or grandchild of Sandi meant you knew you were unwaveringly loved. Never did a Mom or Grandma take as much pride in her family as Sandra, as was evidenced by her annual Christmas letter, which could make the subject matters of said letter blush at its at-times boastful tone. Always funny with a strong penchant for sarcasm, she loved a long-running family inside joke, and had a hearty, infectious laugh when someone shared a great story. She loved a good game night, any holiday or celebration that brought family together, a great film or television show, and an arts & craft project. Always, she would rather spend money on something she could share than on things for herself - a thoughtful card for a loved one, gifts for the grandkids, or a destination family vacation bringing everyone together.

Before holding the mantle of fierce matriarch, Sandi was a public school teacher in IPS, having earned her undergrad, grad and masters degrees from University of Indianapolis (Indiana Central College). She attended George Washington High School where she was in Honor Society, student council, named “Connie Continental,” and was editor-in-chief of her yearbook.

A celebration of life service will be held at Flanner Buchanan - Washington Park North, 2706 Kessler Blvd. West Drive in Indianapolis on July 17, viewing 1-3pm, service 3pm. Flowers can be sent directly to Flanner Buchanan. Charitable donations can be made in her name to WFYI - https://donate.wfyi.org/wfyi/tribute.