December 27, 1960 – November 28, 2013

Sandra Marie Brooks was born in Monroe, Michigan on December 27, 1960. She was the only child born from the union of Kenneth Brooks and the late Helen (Stoltz) Brooks. Sandy attended Jefferson High School participating in their music program and playing the clarinet. She graduated with the Class of 1979.

Sandy married the love of her life, David E. Leach, on June 10, 1995 in Monroe. From this union came the birth of two children. For more than fifteen years, Sandy worked outside the home as a Manager for Dairy Mart Convenience Store. In the year 2000, she happily became a stay-at-home mom, “soccer mom”. Sandy enjoyed being there for her family and children. She was caring and compassionate, and had a great sense of humor. Sandy loved being surrounded by family. She liked cooking for them and sharing memories like vacationing at the beach.

Sandy was very involved in her children’s activities and was a big supporter of Airport Schools. She was well liked by everyone she had contact with. Sandy always made time in her busy life to share lunch with her close friends at least monthly. She was an avid University of Michigan sports fan. In her free time, Sandy enjoyed completing crossword puzzles and tending to her flower garden.

Sandra Marie Leach, age 52 of Newport, passed away at 11:40pm on Thursday, November 28, 2013 after battling short term cancer at Oakwood Southshore Medical Center. In addition to her mother, her passing was preceded by her grandparents.

To cherish her memory, Sandy leaves her loving husband of eighteen years: David E. Leach of Newport; her father: Kenneth Brooks; two sons: Ian and Ethan Leach both of Newport; two nephews: Alexander Spindleman and Christopher Leach of Mio; and several cousins.

Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 8:00pm on Monday, December 2, 2013 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734)384-5185. She will Lie in State from 10:00am until a Celebration of Her Life at 11:00am on Tuesday, December 3, 2013 at First Wesleyan Church 426 Jerome Street. Reverend Paul Roemer will officiate. Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle for burial.

Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.