Surrounded by her husband and children, Sandra Fay Whiting, 66, passed away March 18, 2005 leaving her earthly body to join her dear father and mother in heaven. A peaceful end concluded her courageous two-year battle with cancer.

The only child of Jack J. and Susan Fay Sneed Reninger, Sandee was born August 2, 1938 in Kansas City, Missouri. In 1943 her father took a job on the Hanford Project and they moved to the wartime Camp Hanford trailer site. The family soon relocated to a one bedroom prefab near Marcus Whitman school where Sandee began her education, graduating from Columbia Richland High in 1956.

Her musical gifts were evident very early and, as a young woman, Sandee began playing piano and the organ for the Community of Christ Church, a weekly performance that continued for 46 years.

She was just eight years old when she met ''a pastor's ornery son'' -not then having any notion that he would be her future husband and loving companion of 47 years. Sandee married Gary K. Whiting on April 26, 1957 in Richland and their joyful union produced three children.

Their loving home was the center of her devotion, while her creative talent was evident in her music and artistic expression. She was among the earliest participants in the Allied Art Sidewalk Show, from the time it was staged at the first Richland Library. An accomplished floral designer, Sandee was an original member of the Appleseed Gallery in 1976, working side-by-side with many artists she considered her special friends. She was active in the annual Beaux Arts event at the mall. Community activities included a lead role for many years in the PTA at Marcus Whitman School and she was a leader in both the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts.

In 1980, she began her most cherished role as a grandmother, considering time she spent with her grandchildren sacred, and she leaves many blessed memories of tea parties, late night card games and sleep-overs.

Sandee is survived by her husband Gary, and her children, all of whom live in Richland: Chad Robin, Guy Cynthia and Heather Jeff Rader. Beloved grandchildren are Logan and Jessica Whiting, Mathew and Scott Lane, and Jordan, McKenna and Kirby Rader. Her two aunts Alberta Dunfee and Betty Rollo-reside in Kansas City.

The owner of a warm heart and gentle manner, her love and kindness touched many lives and she will be greatly missed.

Viewing will be 5-8 p.m. Thursday and Friday at Einan's Funeral Home. The graveside service and interment is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 26, 2005 at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

A memorial service is set for 11 a.m. at the Community of Christ Church, 1004 Long Ave., in Richland with a luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family recommends that friends honor Sandee's memory by making a gift to the charity of their personal choice.