I’m going to truly miss my cousin Sandi. While I was caring for my mother, she never failed to check in to see how both of us were doing. When my mother passed, we continued to stay in touch, talking on a monthly basis. We would have hours long conversations about family. She was a fount of family history, who kept in touch with branches of the family. Sometimes I think, I should have taken notes, now sadly that history is lost. I will always cherish those conversations.
Sandra Jean Motley
May 5, 1940 ~ February 15, 2026
Born in:
Providence, Rhode Island
Resided in:
Fremont, California
Sandra “Sandi” Motley** passed away peacefully, 85, surrounded by her family. A woman of deep faith, endless kindness, resilience, and remarkable energy, Sandi touched countless lives through her compassion, generosity, and genuine care for others.
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Sandra was the daughter of the late Lewis and Constance Edmonds. She and her brother David, were raised in East Providence, where she attended local schools before moving to Boston to pursue training as a dental assistant.
Sandra married in 1960 and soon embraced her greatest joy — becoming a mother. In 1965, she relocated to California with her husband and young daughter. After several years working in the dental field on the East Coast and at Fort Ord, California, Sandi pursued further education and graduated from the dental hygiene program at Cabrillo College in Aptos in 1972, reflecting the determination and strong work ethic that defined her life.
Sandi dedicated 42 years to her career as a dental hygienist in Fremont, where she built lasting friendships with colleagues and patients alike. She had a rare gift for making people feel valued and remembered. Patients often became lifelong friends, and many were touched by her thoughtful phone calls, handwritten notes, and sincere interest in their lives.
Outside of her profession, Sandi devoted herself wholeheartedly to family, friendships, faith, and community. She loved gardening, gathering with friends, and especially cherished the companionship of the Friday morning Coffee Group. She was also a devoted and active member of St. James Episcopal Church in Fremont, where she joyfully served on church committees and outreach programs.
Sandra’s life was marked by compassion, perseverance, warmth, and an unwavering belief in the importance of kindness. Her legacy will live on through the many people she encouraged, supported, and loved throughout her life.
In addition to her parents, Sandra was preceded in death by her beloved son-in-law, Mark Jackson, with whom she shared a deep and special bond.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Rebecca Jackson; granddaughter Jessica Beebe (Chad); grandson Sean Jackson (Luisana); and great-grandchildren Wyatt Jackson, Madison Beebe, and Elijah Jackson, who brought immense joy to her life. She is also survived by her brother, David Edmonds, and sister-in-law Lynne Edmonds of Providence, Rhode Island; nephews David, John, Kenneth, and Phillip Edmonds and their families; her “bonus” sons, Kurt Harris, Trevor Harris, and Jimbo Harris and their families; along with many cherished friends and extended family members who will deeply miss her.
A memorial service celebrating Sandra’s life will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. James Episcopal Church. All are welcome to attend and honor her memory.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages others to honor Sandra’s legacy by cherishing friendships, loving unconditionally, and giving generously to others whenever possible.
Services
Memorial Service: May 30, 2026 11:00 am
Room: Church
St. James Episcopal Church
37051 Cabrillo Terrace
Fremont, CA 94536
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2026-05-30 11:00:00
2026-05-30 11:00:00
SandraJean MotleyMemorial Service
Memorial Service
37051 Cabrillo Terrace,Fremont, CA 94536
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