Sandra Jean Waite, 83, of Summerville, SC, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and quiet strength.

Born January 29, 1943, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Sandra was the beloved daughter of Elmer Charles Waite and Annabelle Berard Waite. Her family later settled in Charleston, SC, where she graduated from Chicora High School, class of 1962, and continued her education at Conaday Business College. She grew up in a family that valued hard work and humor—qualities she carried with her throughout her life.

Sandra found joy in reading, sharing a good laugh, playing rummy, and spending time with her children and grandchildren. Her warmth, wit, and gentle spirit made her a steady and comforting presence to all who knew her.

Above all, Sandra’s greatest joy was her family. She made sure her children never missed band or chorus practices, proudly supporting them as they learned music, performed in marching bands, and explored the creative arts. She believed in the power of learning and encouraged curiosity at every turn—whether helping with homework at the kitchen table or celebrating each accomplishment with heartfelt pride. Weekly summer trips to the local library became a cherished tradition, a ritual she insisted on because she knew how profoundly books could shape a child’s world. Her steady presence, her encouragement, and her joy in her children’s growth became one of the greatest gifts she gave them.

Sandra’s laughter was unforgettable. It filled a room instantly, rising above every other sound with its unmistakable, genuine joy. Even in her final days, that beautiful laugh remained—bright, sharp, and full of life. If something truly tickled her, you knew it immediately: a quick, highpitched burst followed by a cascade of rapid laughter. Her wonderfully dry sense of humor made her quick to catch sarcasm or irony, and one witty remark often led to another until everyone around her was laughing too.

We miss the sound of her laughter, but even more, we miss the comfort of her voice. Her kindness lived in the way she spoke—soft, steady, and full of love. We wish we had recorded it. We wish we had known how deeply we would long to hear it again. Her laughter and her voice were the soundtrack of her family’s life—bright, comforting, and unforgettable. They will continue to echo in the stories and memories shared by those who loved her. 

Sandra is preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Annabelle Waite; her brother, Edward Joseph Waite Sr., who is survived by his wife, Millie Waite; her sister, Joan Carter; and her granddaughter, Megan Riley Duncan.

She is survived by her sister, Patricia Simmons; her children, Ernest Gerric Duncan IV (Lisa), Sherie Yvette Duncan (Wayne Cox), and Ginger Marie Kennedy (Kris); and four grandchildren who will forever carry her love in their hearts. 

Sandra’s life will be remembered gently and lovingly by those who knew her best. 

No formal services are planned.