Sandra G. “Sandy” Root, 90, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 25, 2023 at The Glen at Willow Valley Communities, where she had resided for the past 15 years. Sandy was born in Lancaster, PA on February 11, 1933, the daughter of the late Charles and Helen (Johnson) Groome. She was preceded in death by her husband Ralph L. Root, Jr. in 2012, and by her son Douglas G. Root in 2021.
Sandy graduated in the class of 1950 from McCaskey High School and married Ralph a year later, in April 1951. They were married for 61 years. She was a member of St. John Neumann Catholic Church and, for many years, was an active member of JaneCees. Throughout the years, she and Ralph enjoyed traveling and gathering with friends at Meadia Heights Golf Club, Conestoga Country Club, and the Hamilton Club. Additionally, every Friday night, you could likely find them enjoying dinner at Lombardos! Sandy was an avid Bridge player and was an exceptional cook and hostess. Many friends and family anticipated and enjoyed Sandy and Ralph’s annual Christmas party, and to be a guest at her Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts was a celebrated experience!
Sandy is survived by two daughters, Debbie Musso (Frank) and Kelley Lutz (Harry), both of Lancaster. She was a grandmother to and survived by Michael Musso (Jody), Zachary Musso (fiancée Lizz Chin), Devon Groff (Matthew), Taylor Landis (Allen), Ella Root and Jack Root. She is survived by 4 great-grandchildren, Mara, Jocelyn, and Madeline Musso and Bodie Groff. Her sisters, Gloria Steckel and Jean Stauffer predeceased her.
The family wishes to thank the many caregivers and staff at The Glen at Willow Valley Communities for their compassion, kindness and exemplary care throughout her many years of residence there. We are grateful for all you have done for her and for us.
Interment at Conestoga Memorial Park will be private. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at a later date, an announcement of which will appear in LNP with further details. Memorial contributions may be made to the Willow Valley Brunner Nurse Education Fund, 100 Willow Valley Lakes Drive, Willow Street, PA 17584, Attn: Brunner Nurse Education Fund.