Sandra Ann Tar

Sandra Ann “Sandy” Tar passed away peacefully on August 11, 2026, at the age of 80, leaving behind a lifetime of memories that will be treasured by those who knew and loved her.

Sandy was born Sandra Ann Shannon on April 11, 1946, in Wyandotte, Michigan, to the late Harold B. Shannon and Agnes Grace Lindsey. From an early age, Sandy had a caring spirit and a natural love for family. Some of her favorite childhood memories were summers spent visiting her grandmother Cora and Papa Norton in Venice, Florida. While walking to school one day, she met Linda, who would become her lifelong best friend, remaining close until Linda’s passing.

Family bonds were formed early in Sandy’s life. When her mother gave her the choice between cleaning the house or looking after her younger sister Connie, Sandy never hesitated—she chose Connie. The two would often head to the park, usually with Linda along for the adventure. It was an early glimpse of the nurturing, people-loving woman Sandy would become.

Sandy shared 58 years of marriage with her beloved husband, the late Jay Tar. Together, they built a life centered around family, faith, friendship, and the simple joys that made a house a home. His passing left a space in her heart that could never quite be filled, and those who loved them find comfort in knowing they are together again.

Sandy was the devoted mother of Amy (Christopher) Williamson and Jason (Elizabeth) Zobl-Tar and the proud grandmother of Joshua Williamson, Ian (Chloe Sisneros) Williamson, and Sam Tar. Being with her family brought Sandy great happiness, and she was always ready to spend time with the people she loved.

She is also survived by her siblings, Ronald (Gail) Shannon, Connie (James) Foster, Holly (the late Eddie) O’Mara, and Colleen (Tommy) Nibarger, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

For approximately 30 years, Sandy worked at the Secretary of State, where her outgoing personality made meeting and helping people a natural fit. Earlier in life, shortly after graduating from high school, she performed secretarial work for a mortgage company in downtown Detroit. Even then, family was never far from her thoughts, and she would often return home with little trinkets and gifts for her siblings.

Faith was an important part of Sandy’s life. She was a longtime member of Cavalry Lutheran Church, where she was actively involved and served in many different roles over the years. The friendships and sense of community she found there meant a great deal to her. Sandy also enjoyed the fellowship of her book club and pinochle club.

She was happiest when her hands and mind were busy. Sandy loved solitaire, puzzles, and especially crafts. She was always ready for a craft project and didn’t much care who joined her—children, grandchildren, friends, or anyone else willing to sit down and create something alongside her.

Sandy could also happily settle in for a good Western. It didn’t matter much which one; if there were cowboys on the screen, chances were she was watching. She had a sweet tooth, was a fabulous cook and baker, and knew that some of life’s best moments could be found around a table with something homemade to share.

Those who knew Sandy will remember a woman who was loving and caring, with just enough feistiness to keep everyone on their toes. She enjoyed people, treasured her family, and had a wonderful way of turning ordinary moments—an afternoon crafting, a card game, a trip to the park, a homemade treat, or simply sitting together—into lasting memories.

Sandy’s life was filled with the things that mattered most to her: a long and loving marriage, a family she cherished, enduring friendships, meaningful work, a strong church community, and countless moments shared with those she loved. Her warmth, her caring nature, and that unmistakable little bit of feistiness will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a Memorial Visitation on Saturday, August 15, 2026, beginning at 10:00 AM at Solosy Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will follow at 1:00 PM.

A luncheon at The Hungarian Rhapsody in Southgate will immediately follow the Memorial Service.