Sandra Jean Purash Summersgill, formerly of West Middlesex, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 20, 2024, while residing at Quality Life Services in New Castle PA.  Her kind and grateful ways remained evident even during her recent years of navigating dementia.

Sandra was born on October 2, 1936, a daughter of Mary and Paul (Smith) Purash and was a graduate of Farrell High School.

Sandy is survived by her husband of 66 years--Stephen D. Summersgill who resides in Hermitage; three daughters,  Merry-Jo (Chip) Holder of Hermitage, Sherry Lynne Roche of West Middlesex,  Melissa (Gerry) Tyillian of Hermitage; six grandchildren, Korina (Brad) Yanak of Hermitage, Daniel (Abby) Tyillian of Hermitage, Stephen (Kaitlyn Beck) Tyillian of Hermitage, Cassandra Lynn Holder of West Middlesex, Robb (Ashley Stubbs) Holder of Hermitage, Calissa Holder of Greensboro, NC; one great-grandson, Scout Yanak; and many loved nieces and nephews and their children-since Sandy was one of eleven children, who all preceded her in death.

Sandy's kindness, nurturing and encouraging spirit touched the lives of everyone she encountered. She was not only a devoted mother but also a cherished Nana who created countless memories with her grandchildren.

A faithful servant of the Episcopal churches in the Shenango Valley, Sandy served in the kitchen and as a Sunday School Superintendent over the years and dedicated her life to sharing the love and compassion found in the teachings of Jesus.  Her commitment to her faith was evident, and when she said she would pray for you, she prayed for you! And followed up with care. She spent years attending, and then went on to lead, Cursillo retreats with her husband Steve.

In the kitchen, Sandy was known for her delicious Nana's spaghetti sauce and baked goods including her famous Texas sheet cake that brought joy to family gatherings and church events.

Outside the kitchen and the church, Sandy had a passion for shopping and bingo. Whether she was daily exploring the aisles of Strouss'...Kaufmann's… then Macy's to overfill the biggest Rubbermaid totes with Christmas gifts and clothes for her grandchildren or enjoying a game (many cards) of bingo with friends, it was her enthusiasm to give and share that defined her!

We take comfort in knowing that Sandy is now at peace with Jesus. Her lifelong lessons of treating others with kindness and grace, regardless of circumstances, have become the guiding principles and legacy for her family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Grace Chapel Community Church, 4075 Lamor Rd., Hermitage, PA 16148, where Sandy and Steve worshiped in recent years.

Calling hours will be 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday (01/24/2024) in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1090 East State St., Sharon. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.McGonigleFuneralHomeandCrematory.com

There will be a private memorial service to celebrate the life of Sandra Jean (Purash) Summersgill.

Interment: Hillcrest Memorial Park, Hermitage.