Sandra Gay Winger

Sandra “Sandy” Gay Winger, 59, passed away March 20, 2024, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center.

Sandy was born March 15, 1965, in St. Anthony to Larry Thompson and Jennet Rawson. She was the middle child of three sisters. She spent most of her life in Idaho Falls and Rigby. She was married to David Tanner in 1986. Unfortunately, David passed soon after this union. She married the late Bart Winger in the early ‘90s, and they were later divorced.

Sandy’s first son, Tyler (Shandel) Thompson, was born on Dec. 27, 1983. Tyler has three sons, Kaden Thompson of Idaho Falls and Tyrin Thompson and Conlee Lyon of Blackfoot. Daniel (Taylor) Winger was born March 3, 1992, and has two children, Bart and Freyja Winger of Rigby. Sandy’s grandchildren were of the utmost importance to her. She proudly was “Grandma Sandy” and always let the children know how much love she had for them.

Sandy spent most of her career as a journeyman concrete finisher. She was also employed with Bonneville County Landfill and Solid Waste Department. At the time of her death, she worked as a community support worker for her grandson.

Sandy loved the outdoors, fishing, camping, old movies and having a good time. We will miss her dearly. She was a hardworking, tough, honest woman who taught us so much about life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Patricia Torres, and her beloved dog Ottis.

She is survived by her sons, grandchildren, and her sister Paula (Jim) Williams.

The family would like to thank EIRMC’s intensive care unit and emergency room team, DonorConnect, and her friend Ruben Wheeler. Ruben looked out for her for the past few years and was able to resuscitate her to fulfill her wish of being an organ donor. This selfless act has already given two others a better chance at life, and with tissue and bone, she will be able to improve the lives of many more to come.

A gathering will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 28, at Wood Funeral Home East Side, 963 S. Ammon Road.

In lieu of flowers, please check on your friends and neighbors, turn on a Merle Haggard song, and slow down to enjoy the time you have with loved ones.