ZALESKI, Ohio – Sandra “Sandi” Bickley, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away surrounded by the love of her close family, who meant so much to her, on September 4, 2026. She was born July 2, 1967, to the late Martha (Don) Adams and Dayne (Carolyn) Bickley.
Sandi grew up in the Glouster area before finding her way to Zaleski, where she found a home in the quiet, small-town community. The simple charm and close-knit feel of Zaleski suited her, and it became a place she was proud to call home.
Sandi was a deeply creative and artistic person who found tremendous joy in making things with her own hands. She loved crafting and crocheting, and she took great pride in her artistic ability. Craft shows became a special part of her family’s life over the years. She enjoyed participating in them with her family while her children were growing up, and later continued the tradition by doing craft shows together as adults. Those shared experiences became cherished memories that her family will carry with them.
For many years, Sandi was also known for her incredible talent as a hairstylist. She built lasting relationships with the people she served, many of whom continued to remember her fondly for her work.
Sandi also enjoyed playing online video games, including WoW, although in recent years she spent much more of her time creating crafts and crocheting. She was an animal lover who considered her pets not simply animals, but her beloved “furbabies.” She held a special place in her heart for Roxy, as well as her cats, Tiger and Mims.
Above all else, Sandi treasured her family, especially her grandchildren. Her “grandbabies”—Oaklee, Piper, and Elliott—were the true treasures of her life. Sandi could talk for hours about them and cherished every moment she was able to spend with them. Whether playing with toys, sharing a video game, watching them grow, or simply enjoying their company, her grandchildren brought her a happiness that was unmistakable. They were a constant source of pride, love, and joy in her life.
Sandi had a way of making people feel accepted and at home. She was like a second mother to many of her children’s friends and to others who came into her life. She was non-judgmental and created a space where people could be completely themselves, without fear of criticism or rejection. Those who knew her understood that they could come to Sandi as their authentic selves and would be met with kindness, understanding, and love.
She treasured her lifelong friendship with Dave, as well as her longtime overseas friend and confidant, Damitrius. Her friendships and relationships were deeply meaningful to her, and she carried a special place in her heart for the people she loved.
Sandi is survived by her beloved brother, Mike (Olym) Bickley; her sister, Vicky; her three children, Mandi (Corey) Arnold, Brandi (Bill) Morgan, and Christian (Nicole) Lafollette; her grandchildren, Oaklee Lafollette, Piper Lafollette, and Elliott Arnold; and her numerous nieces and nephews, whom she loved as her own.
She leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, kindness, acceptance, laughter, and cherished memories that will live on in all who knew her. She will be remembered as a talented artist and hairstylist, a loving mother and grandmother, a second mother to many, and a person who made others feel safe to be exactly who they were. Above all, Sandi will be remembered for the immense love she had for her family and friends, and especially for her grandchildren, who were the greatest joy of her life.
A celebration of life memorial service is being planned by the family. Details will be released when they become available. Arrangements have been entrusted to Morrison Funeral Chapel, Glouster-Bishopville. A message of comfort may be sent to the family at www.morrisonfc.com