Walter Lee Sands

Walter Lee Sands, 80, of Sedalia, MO, passed away on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Bothwell Regional Health Center.

He was born on June 23, 1945, in Sedalia, the son of Kenneth Sands and Virginia Lee (Lemons) Sands Brockman, who preceded him in death.

On December 31, 1971, in Sedalia, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Mary Hoke, who survives of the home.

Walt was a proud graduate of Smith-Cotton High School, Class of 1963. Following graduation, he began working for the City of Sedalia before answering the call to serve his country. From 1965 to 1969, he served honorably in the United States Air Force, spending one year stateside in Maine and three years overseas in England. After completing his military service, Walt returned home and resumed his career with the City of Sedalia, where he devoted 40 years of faithful service until his retirement in 2010.

He was a dedicated member of Encounter Church in Sedalia and an active member of several veterans' organizations, including Sedalia Voiture 333 of the 40 & 8, the American Legion Post #642, and Disabled American Veterans.

Walt had a fun-loving spirit and enjoyed life's simple pleasures. He was an avid fan of professional wrestling and shared a special Monday night tradition of gathering with family to watch WWE together. He also loved cheering on his brother at the dirt tracks, racing micro midgets. Walt cherished time with his family, adored his grandchildren, and treasured the companionship of his beloved dog, Chewy.

In addition to his wife of nearly 54 years, Mary, he is survived by two daughters, Heather Wright of Hughesville, MO and Holly Hatfield (Chris) of Sedalia; two grandchildren, Ashlee and Jacob; two sisters, Gloria Baldwin of Kansas City, MO and Kenna Page (J.R.) of Alamogordo, NM; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Herb Sands.

Funeral services will be held at 4:00 p.m. Thursday, October 9, 2025, at Rea Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Chris Gray officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the chapel.

Full military honors will be conducted by the Whiteman Air Force Base Honor Guard and the Sedalia VFW Post #2591 prior to the funeral service.

Honorary bearers will be Charlie Martin, Kenny Sands, Jacob Sands, Chris Hatfield, and Orval Petree.

In lieu of flowers and plants, memorial contributions are suggested to the Sedalia Senior Center, in care of Rea Funeral Chapel.