Shirley Ann Sands, 74, of Somerset, formerly of Mt. Sterling, died Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, at Somerwoods Nursing and Rehabilitation in Somerset.
Born Feb. 15, 1951, in Mt. Sterling, she was the daughter of the late Shirley Becraft Jr. and Rhoda Nell Richards Becraft. She spent many years as a retail clerk at Big Lots, where she was known for her friendly demeanor and commitment to customer service. Her passions extended beyond her work. She loved spending time engaging in farmwork, exploring yard sales, collecting antiques, and enjoying fishing trips. These activities brought her joy and allowed her to create cherished memories with her family.
Survivors include two sons, Tom Sands of Mt. Sterling and Jesse Sands (Patty) of Jeffersonville; a daughter, Jennifer Coldiron (Chuck) of Somerset; a brother, Kenny Becraft (Cathy) of Mt. Sterling. Her legacy will continue through her eight grandchildren, Ashley Hammond, Michael Coldiron, Matthew Coldiron, Jennifer Faye Sands, Allie Mae Sands, Heather Sands, Kayla Ray and Krista Hunter. Other survivors include 11 great-grandchildren, Sloane Hammond, PJ Coldiron, Remi Ogilvy-Coldiron, Louise Ogilvy-Coldiron, Dylan Sands, Mia Callahan, Ryder Scott, Jeremiah Sands, Cami Lyle, Callie Weesner and Levi Coldiron, all of whom she adored and cherished.
In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Sands, who died July 11, 1999.
Service was conducted Friday, Jan. 23, at the Michael R. Gray Funeral Home in Owingsville with Andy Hadley officiating. Burial was in Kendall Springs Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Tom Sands, Jesse Sands, Michael Coldiron, Jason Hammond, Matthew Coldiron and Danny Ginter.
Honorary pallbearer was Danny Callahan.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Hospice of Lake Cumberland and Autism Society.
The Michael R. Gray Funeral Home cared for all the arrangements.
