Sandra Ione Smith

Sandra “Sandy” Ione Spafford Smith, age 77, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, at Engel Haus in Albertville, Minnesota.

Sandy was born on December 29, 1947, to Oscar and Beatrice Spafford and grew up in Wheaton, Minnesota. In her youth, she was a lifeguard, cheerleader and she played the saxophone in the band, setting the stage for the energy, spirit and drive that she carried throughout her life.

After high school, Sandy lived and worked in Browns Valley, Minnesota where she and Bill Adolfson welcomed their two daughters, Cheryl and Reagan. She later moved to Plymouth, Minnesota, where she built a rich and meaningful life filled with family, community, and activity — often attending countless basketball and volleyball games to support her daughters. Sandy excelled in her career and was deeply committed to serving others. She was a dedicated member of the Hopkins Police Reserve, taught EMT courses, and generously contributed her time and leadership to the Plymouth Civic League, including serving as president of Music in Plymouth.

In 1995 Sandy reunited with her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Tar Smith. Together, they built Goldsmith Jewelers in Little Falls, Minnesota into a successful business and were active in the Little Falls business community. After their retirement in 2013, Sandy and Tar made their home in Wheaton on Lake Traverse, where they enjoyed lake life surrounded by family and friends.

Sandy lived a full and vibrant life. Always busy, always in charge, and always full of life, Sandy will be remembered for her warmth, her leadership, and the deep love she shared with her family and friends.

Sandy is survived by her daughters Cheryl (John) and Reagan (Dave); stepchildren Alexis, Skye (Jon), Mackenzie (Laura); and grandchildren: River, Alissa (Jacob), Autumn, Nate, Jackson, Hope, Finn, Hudson, and Dane; brothers Joe (Jeanne) and Paul (Su); and sister-in-law Deanne.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tar Smith; her brother, Dale Spafford; and her parents, Oscar and Beatrice Spafford.

A Memorial Service will be held Monday, October 6, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John Lutheran Church in Wheaton with Rev. Dan Gifford officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service time at the church.