Delores Faye Sandlin

Delores Faye Sandlin, a vibrant beacon of strength and love, was born on June 17, 1944, in McKee, Kentucky. She continued to carry that strength and love along with her in every aspect of her life, touching the hearts of many before her passing on January 3, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee.

Throughout her years, Delores dedicated herself to the noble profession of a nurses aid, serving at a nursing home where her innate compassion shone brightest. Her retirement marked the end of a career that bore witness to her unwavering spirit, yet her legacy of love and care continued to permeate the lives she touched. As she ventured through life, she remained a fierce fighter, demonstrating a robust will and an unyielding positive attitude that lit up even the darkest of days. Delores was affectionately known as a ray of sunshine, embodying sweetness and strength in perfect harmony.

With a sharp mind complemented by an even sharper wit, Delores never hesitated to sprinkle her conversations with a hint of sass, always leaving those around her smiling. She carried a depth of love within her, ready to give freely to family and friends alike. Her proudest accomplishments were undoubtedly her sons, who she cherished beyond measure, always telling them, “I’ll love you to the moon and back.” Her love for them was profound, her commitment to ensuring they were well-fed and cared for a testament to her devotion. Cooking was her love language, and one could often find the comforting aroma of her beloved cornbread wafting through her home, a testament to the nurturing spirit she embedded within family traditions.

A woman of strong Christian faith, her spirituality guided her life and infused her relationships with purpose and meaning. Delores’ love for the color purple resonated not only in her wardrobe but also in the essence of her vibrant personality, each shade reflecting her deep appreciation for beauty, both in nature and in the lives of those she held dear.

Delores is preceded in death by her loving husband Joseph Sandlin, son Mike Sandlin, parents Bill and Dora Clemmons, as well as her brother Gary Clemmons. She is survived by her son Steve Sandlin, brother Edward Clemmons, and daughter Lisa Sullivan. She is also survived by her half-sisters JoAnne, Renee, and Margaret, her nieces and nephews: Ben, John, Greg, Julie, David, Missy, Joe, Jamie, Tina, Craig, Omar, Dawn, Brian, Lena, Robbie, Lisa, and Barbara, as well as her great nieces and nephews: Little David, Maverick, Scarlett, Brooklyn, and Tyler. Although she is gone her memory will forever reside within them all.

As we say goodbye to Delores Faye Sandlin, we remember a woman who fought valiantly, spread joy unfailingly, and loved deeply. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, warmth, and unwavering strength that will forever resonate in the hearts of her family and friends. In her journey through life, she taught us the value of love, resilience, and the simple joy of a well-cooked meal shared among loved ones. Her spirit will continue to inspire us all as we carry her light forward in our lives. To quote her son Steve, “Mom has her Angel Wings now, God has welcomed his most beautiful and precious Angel into Heaven. I love you to the moon and back, Mom. Rest in peace with Mike, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa, and Gary.”