Sandra K. Carter, affectionately known as Sandy, of Thonotosassa, Florida, passed away on October 24, 2025, at the age of 57. She was born on June 5, 1968, in Tampa, Florida, to the late Alice Hayes and Frank Fernandez Jr.
Sandy was a woman whose kindness, humor, and determination touched every life she encountered. She was known for her warm heart, protective nature, and genuine love for people. Whether through her laughter, her compassion, or her welcoming smile behind the bar, Sandy had a gift for making everyone feel at home.
She took great pride in her work as a bartender, a role that reflected her outgoing spirit and her love for connecting with others. More than anything, Sandy was a devoted mother and grandmother whose family meant the world to her.
She is survived by her loving children Steven Carter Jr., Stephanie Carter, Courtney Earegood, and Jacquline Earegood; her cherished grandchildren Noah Carter, Elijah Carter, Nevaeh Cruz, and Sky Cruz; her longtime partner Phillip Richardson; and her brother Fransisco “Andy” Fernandez (Karen). She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and beloved friends who will forever cherish her memory.
She was preceded in death by her daughter Daphanie Earegood, her parents Alice Hayes and Frank Fernandez Jr., and her brothers Robert “Bobby” Fernandez Sr. and Thomas “Tommy” Fernandez.
Sandy found joy in the simple pleasures of life — watching The Real Housewives shows, singing along to Jelly Roll, and surrounding herself with the people she loved most. Her children were her greatest joy, and she devoted her life to ensuring their happiness and well-being.
She will be remembered for her loving heart, her sense of humor, and the way she cared deeply for everyone around her.
A service to celebrate Sandy’s life will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Southern Funeral Care, 10510 Riverview Drive, Riverview, Florida 33578.
Sandy’s memory will live on through the love she shared, the laughter she inspired, and the countless lives she brightened along the way.
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“Even when the rain falls, the sun’s gonna shine again.” — Jelly Roll ☀️
Previous Events
Visitation
15
Nov
10510 Riverview Drive
Riverview, FL 33578
Celebration of Life Service
15
Nov
10510 Riverview Drive
Riverview, FL 33578
