June 16, 1946 – November 30, 2023
KITTY HAWK — My Sandy-bach passed away yesterday November 30, 2023. Initially, I was somewhat loathe to post a notice of her passing because I was not inclined to see all the regards that usually follow a person’s death. Nor dwell on the eight-plus years of her struggle with Alzheimer’s. Instead, I would rather celebrate the life that brought so much joy to both her family and many friends. At least, she passed away peacefully at home knowing she was loved so very much.
However, my second thought was, too indeed, celebrate her life. Always proud of her Welsh heritage and raised in the small town of Granville in update New York. Her father R Newton Williams, who during his life served the town of Granville in many capacities and whom she truly loved, passed away three days before Sandy’s sixteenth birthday. Her loving mother, Edna passed away in 1987. After graduating from Becker Junior College in 1966 she married Michael Furlo in September 1967.
Sandy was able to enjoy a life that few get to experience. Together, Sandy and Mike spent their life living in foreign lands like Germany and Brazil, as well as, across the United States from east coast states like Virginia and North Carolina: middle America like Kentucky, Kansas and Texas; to the far west in California. Along with this journey the joy of having three wonderful children and touched many along the way with her kindness and accepting heart.
In addition, during all her travels and places lived, she always had a strong work ethic, finding work multiple times as a medical assistant, Bank teller, or even a video store manager. While living in Brazil Sandy served as the Community Liaison Officer at the American Embassy in Brasilia. During this time, she had the privilege to be one of the principle escorts for the visit of President George H.W. Bush to both Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia in 1992.
However, her central joy and most important role in life was always raising her three children, Jay James, and Jillian and their families, especially as her six grandchildren have continued to grow. Throughout the years she remained a mom first and always present for her kids and grandkids.
Another close family member has been Michael’s brother Frank A. Furlo II and his son and daughter. Furthermore, there has always been a special place in her heart for her deceased sister Prudy and husband John DeLuisi and her three nieces and two nephews and their families.
Besides her children, and relatives, Sandra Reese Furlo is survived by her husband of 56 years, Michael A. Furlo, LTC, ret. In all her roles she left an indelible mark across the globe to all that that had the privilege of calling her wife, mom, monga, nanna, or friend.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
