Mrs. Mackay was my English teacher at Bishop Grandin and I have always thought fondly of her since graduating from Grandin in '78. She was an inspiration for me as a consummate professional, engaging, challenging and fair. She is one of the reasons I am entering my 28th year of teaching. Thank.you so much Mrs. Mackay!

My Thoughts and Prayers are with you. - Marguerite MacBey

I taught with Sandy during my years at St. Mary’s. She was my VP at the time. I always appreciated her support and great sense of humor. She was very kind to me and I would to pass on my sincere condolences to her family, especially Heather. May you all be comforted that she is resting in peace. God bless all of you.

Dear Heather and family,

Your description of your very talented mother is so fitting, "the epitome of a big person in a small package." She dedicated her life to teaching and brave enough to share her talents with her high school classes for many years.

As noted by a former student, Mrs. MacKay (Sandy) inspired her students with relatable stories and translations of Shakespeare and current songs, enriching her English classes.

She was a true educator.

Your Mom prepared her children for life's unpredictable journey by shepherding them by example, hard work, a valued education and lots of love. She will always be with you.

Heather I just let Shannon know of news of your Mom. We have been away from Calgary for years but both of us send you hugs and deepest condolences.

Warmest regards, Andrea McArthur,

Email: amcwindsor@yahoo.ca

I was saddened to read about Mrs. MacKay's passing. She was my high school English teacher at Bishop Grandin in 1978-'79. I can directly attribute my love of reading and curiosity of life to her. I still have so many memories of being in her classes and of feeling inspired from all aspects of her teachings. Whether it was how she brought Shakespeare's' writing to life and making it so easy to understand, to listening and deciphering songs like "Sounds of Silence", I always looked forward to her classes. She was so well respected, and had a quick response to anyone trying to "outsmart" her. Throughout the years, I have often thought about her...She made a huge impression in the few short years that I had with her - but I think that is what made her so remarkable! She was incredibly intelligent but a beautiful, gentle soul.

Dear Sandra’s Family. We were saddened to hear of Sandy’s passing. We have so many fond memories of the “ old Regina high school days”. Sandra may have been short in stature, but a giant in life and friendship. The McKay, Alexander, Bailey, Burns, McGrath and many more shared our young lives in so many ways. Fond memories prevail. We know you have heavy hearts, but remember Sandra is in the “Hands of the Lord”. Cheryl and Jack Alexander

Mrs. McKay was by far the best teacher I had. She was frank, quick witted and never one to avoid the heavy conversation. It was Mrs. McKay years later who called me for an interview to teach English at Bishop Grandin. She called asking if I was a former student of hers and set up the interview. I’m grateful for her as a teacher and later for giving my a career opportunity. She was a woman ahead of her time! I’m so very sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences.

Hi Sandy’s family, especially Carrie. Quinn (Hiebert) sent us this obituary this morning from Montreal. Filled us all with sadness for all of you for your huge loss. Sandy was a force of life —and fun! Great memories right from Kindergarten of our kids. Remember your graduation, Carrie?

Sandy: « Is Quinn wearing his hair up or down?”

Unfortunately we will be out of town for Sandy’s funeral, which we hate to miss. What a great life! Rest in peace, Sandy.

Murray & Eilis Hiebert, (Also born 1943)

Carrie was a great friend growing up and I'll always remember how warm Sandy was when we visited their house -- always taking time to chat with me, along with a wide-range of other teenaged personalities, and asking how my family, Eilis, Murray & Paul, were doing.

Our deepest condolences Carrie, Heather, and Bill.

Quinn

Sandra was a lovely lady. I got to meet Sandra on several trips to Ottawa, the first of when my sister married Bill and then several times later to visit Sara, Bill and the kids. We had many great conversations and shared a few good laughs.

Our Condolences to all the family and you are all in our thoughts and prayers.

My mother Carmel joins Frédérique and I in sending sincere condolences to Bill, Heather, Carrie and the whole family.

Sandra was a friend and a cherished colleague for my mother who holds fond memories of their years together at Bishop Grandin High School. They shared a deep commitment to their role as educators, shaping so many young minds over the course of their careers. They likely shared tips and strategies on managing their respective sons at the school, who oscillated between academic achievement and occasional delinquency. They may have found comfort in the idea that the shenanigans of one might be eclipsed by those of the other.

We will miss Sandra's zest, her wit and her charm. You are all in our prayers.

A beautiful tribute to a spirited , fun , lady whom I always loved to connect with. Sorry to hear of her passing. I smile when I think of her. My deepest condolences.

Sandy was a teacher (Miss Reed) at my high school, AOB in Edmonton 1966-67.

And later we were colleagues, completing our Masters of Education through Gonzaga University 1979-81.

Such a lovely smart, fun lady!

Sandra was the best teacher I had at Bishop Grandin. When I look back on my life I can confidently say she had the largest impact of any teacher. She could read a student well and knew what buttons to push to get the best out of them. Rest in Peace.

One of my favorite teachers when I attended Bishop Grandin, 79-81'. It was great to see her at The Schools 50th Anniversary.

Death Leaves a Heartache No One Can Heal. Love Leaves A Memory No One Can Steal.

Colleen Dardis-McCallum

I was fortunate to meet Sandy in 1982 as a 12th Grade English Student at Bishop Grandin. She was a truly wonderful teacher. Later, I came to know her better when I became a teacher in Calgary Catholic. We shared laughs and stories whenever our paths crossed. She had a wicked sense of humour and great vibrance. I’m grateful for Sandy’s contributions to my life and so fortunate to have known this delightful lady. My condolences to her family…she was a treasure.

Carrie, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I remember many stories that you told about your Mom while working at Sait! Cherish your memories and take time to grieve her. She was special because she was your Mom!