Sandra G. Kehoe, of Fairport NY, at the age of 83, passed peacefully, at home on December 15th. The final full moon of 2024, set in full view of her window making her final moments nothing short of remarkable and unique, just like her.
She is predeceased by her Husband, Thomas D. Kehoe and her Brother Charles Griggs.
She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Derion (Michael Mori) and her grandson’s Ryan, Maxwell and Jackson. Her son Thomas M. Kehoe (Kelly) and grandchildren Carly and Conner. Her Brother Carl Griggs and several Nieces and nephews.
Born on July 16, 1941 in Oswego, NY to Leonard and Dorthy Griggs, It was apparent early on that she had the gift of a beautiful singing voice and participated in several school musicals. She sang with bands and played guitar throughout her younger days. Music always remained a cornerstone of her life.
After obtaining her cosmetology license, she moved to the Park Avenue area of Rochester NY with friends. It was during this time; she met her husband and started a family. She went on to own her own hairdressing studio where she ran the business for several years. In later years she went back to school and graduated with her bachelor’s degree from SUNY Oswego. From there she worked at BOCES Rush Campus Alternative HS program up until retirement.
Her openness and approachability were a gift, creating connections wherever she went. Sandy built bridges between people and made the world just a little bit smaller, one kind conversation at a time.
Her clever remarks and playful humor were unmatched, and her “Sandy-isms” became legendary—quirky phrases and unforgettable one-liners that only she could deliver with such charm and timing. Whether she was making light of a tough situation or just sharing a laugh with friends, her words had a way of brightening any room.
One of her greatest talents and hobbies was painting. Sandy captured the world as she saw it—full of color, beauty, and emotion.
Her artwork was not just a reflection of her creativity, but an extension of her generous heart. Over time, her paintings became treasures in the homes of friends and family.
One of her favorite little rituals was unwinding with a glass of wine, always with her signature touch: “Just a smitch” in the glass. It wasn’t just about the wine—it was about the perfect balance she found in life, the ability to savor the small pleasures, and the way she embraced every moment with joy. “Just a Smitch” was just enough to make the day feel complete, a reminder that sometimes the best things are the simplest.
The void she leaves is immense, but through our memories and the love she so generously gave, Sandy will forever be a part of us. She will never truly be gone.
Thank you to Rochester Regional Hospice Care for their guidance. You are extraordinary, compassionate people.
Calling Hours will be on Saturday December 21st at the Richard H. Keenan Funeral Home in the Village of Fairport 41 South Main Street from 11AM-1PM
At Sandy’s request, we will be having a celebration of life and “Smitches” at the Fairport Village Inn, from 1pm-4pm, immediately following calling hours.
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