Sandra Louise Rosenthal

Sandra Louise Rosenthal, née Horton, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana, the city where her life also began on March 24, 1947. Her passing leaves behind the memory of a woman whose warmth, energy, and unmistakable spirit made her unforgettable to all who knew her.

Sandra graduated from North Central High School and went on to build a life marked by hard work, independence, and pride in all she did. Over the years, she worked at Western Electric and Kittle’s Furniture, and she also fulfilled the dream of owning her own business, Crossroads of Fashion boutique. That accomplishment remained a special source of pride to her, reflecting both her drive and her love of connecting with people.

She was, by every account, a bubbly and magnetic presence. Sandra was the kind of person everyone instantly liked. She loved people and socializing, and she carried herself with a natural hospitality that made others feel welcome and at ease. Very energetic and truly the life of the party, she brought joy wherever she went. She loved dancing all her life, having studied ballet when she was younger and later enjoying ballroom dancing. Music also brought her great happiness, especially the jazz of David Lowe and the songs of Celine Dion. She was an animal lover, a devoted friend, and a woman who embraced life with enthusiasm. Above all, she loved her husband, Lester Rosenthal, whom she loved to travel with, and she was especially proud of her sons.

Sandra is survived by her son, Bradford Drake, and daughter-in-law, Jill Drake. She also leaves her granddaughter, Athena Garrison and Michael Short, along with her great-grandchildren, Christopher Garrison, Brooklyn Short, and Tyler Short. She is also survived by her brother, Bill Horton and several nieces and nephew. May those who loved her find comfort in the many happy memories she created through her kindness, her laughter, and her vibrant way of moving through the world.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lester Rosenthal; her son, Darrell Drake; her father, Lacy J. Horton; her mother, Ernestine Chandler Horton; and her sister, Stephanie Horton. Their memories remained part of her life’s story and are now joined with hers in remembrance.

Visitation will be held on October 1, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Flanner Buchanan–Oaklawn Memorial Gardens (Conner Suite), 9700 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, Indiana 46250. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. at the same location.

Sandra Louise Rosenthal will be remembered for her sparkling personality, her love of family, her gift for friendship, and the bright, welcoming spirit she shared so freely. Her life was full of movement, music, laughter, and love, and her memory will continue to shine in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Memorial contributions may be made to IndyHumane, 7929 Michigan Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46268 or Parkinson's Foundation, 5757 Waterford District Drive Suite 310 Miami, FL 33126.