CELEBRATION OF LIFE OF LILLIAN SANDS

Lillian Sands, 96, formerly of Duquesne and East Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was born January 25, 1929, in Cleveland County, North Carolina. She was the beloved daughter of the late William H. and Ida S. Sands.

Lillian attended school at the historic Thyne Institute in Chase City. She retired from UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA in the Dietary Department.

Deaconess Lillian Sands, a devoted member of Jerusalem Baptist Church in Duquesne since 1954, faithfully served in many ministries. Above all, she was dedicated to each one until her health began to decline. Over the years, she contributed to the Usher Board, Hospitality Ministry, Deaconess Ministry, and Youth Ministry. Whenever there was an event at the church, she was always there, ensuring everyone felt welcome and cared for. It would be hard to find anyone, inside or outside the church, who did not know and adore “Miss Lill.”

In addition to being a good soldier of Christ Jesus, Lillian enjoyed gardening, walking her dogs, traveling, cooking, and playing bingo with friends.

Lillian departed this life peacefully on July 18, 2025, at Kane Community Living Center - Glen Hazel in Hazelwood, PA, where Johna Gilliam-Walker “adopted” and lovingly cared for “Mama Sands,” as she was affectionately called by a devoted and supportive staff. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings.

Lillian is survived by her beloved children, son and daughter-in-law, Willie (Catherine) Sands, daughter Dolores, one grandson (Kenneth), three great-granddaughters (Edaiza, Shikara Harris, and Onari), one great-great-granddaughter (Jamari Bivins); and goddaughter Hilda McKissick. Her surviving family also includes a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and numerous others that she viewed as members of her own family. Lillian will be remembered and missed by innumerable friends as well.