Sandra (Sandy) L. Stephens, of Valparaiso, passed away at home May 7, 2007. She was 47.

She was born April 9, 1960 in Valparaiso, the daughter of Anthony B. Sella, who preceded her in death and Viola Sella, who survives in Valparaiso.

She is also survived by two children, Josalynn Stephens of Las Vegas, Nev. and Ross Stephens of Somerset, Ky.; a sister, Patricia Sella of Valparaiso; a brother Don (Tammy) Sella of Valparaiso and former husband, Byron Stephens of Somerset, Ky.

A life-long resident of Valparaiso, her mother and late father were owners of Mink Lake Golf Course in Valparaiso since 1950.

She was a 1978 graduate of Chesterton High School. She received a business degree from Oakland City College in Terre Haute and made a career in the restaurant industry. She managed J&J Pizza Shack in Portage, worked at Sand Creek Country Club and was the banquet director for the Holiday Inn of Portage from 1984 to 1986.

Sandy will be remembered for her compassion, caring attitude toward others and as a person able to persevere through any challenge. Her greatest role was being the mother to two children.

An outdoor memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, May 11 at Coffee Creek Pavilion, 178 E. Sidewalk Rd., Chesterton.

Friends may visit with the family beginning at 3 p.m.

Memorials may be given to the English Bulldog Rescue, c/o Illiana Bulldog Club.

Arrangements by Dykes Funeral Home, Inc. 462-3125.

Posted 5/10/2007