Sandra “Gay” Cordell

In Loving Memory of Sandra “Gay” Cordell

November 11, 1945 – June 7, 2025

Sandra “Gay” Cordell was peacefully called into the presence of the Lord on June 7, 2025, while sleeping soundly with her loving family by her side.

Gay was born in Wenatchee, Washington, to W.R. “Bud” and Lena Bell Cordell on November 11, 1945. As the daughter of a hardworking and ever-mobile farmer, her joyful childhood unfolded across the Wenatchee area, the Yakima Valley, Quincy, and eventually back home to Wenatchee. After graduating from Eastmont High School, she attended the University of Washington, where she majored in Chemistry—she liked to joke it was the fastest route to a diploma. Ever independent, Gay’s graduation gift from her parents was a bill for her car insurance, prompting her to quickly find a job. She spent a year in Alaska working with children, and later served as a social worker in the Seattle area.

One day, her father quipped, “You talk so much, you should get paid for it.” Taking that advice to heart, Gay enrolled in law school. After graduating, she returned to Wenatchee and became one of the area’s first female attorneys. Known for her brilliant mind, unwavering integrity, strong moral compass, and tireless work ethic, Gay built an extraordinary career that spanned over three decades. Through her practice, she touched and transformed countless lives.

In 1992, Gay married the love of her life, Terry Scott. Theirs was a relationship filled with deep love, hearty laughter, and mutual respect. Together, they embraced life with joy—caring for aging parents, raising teenagers, skiing, sailing, golfing, hunting, and spending time with close friends. Sailing became their shared passion and the horizon was always calling. But in 2004, Terry was unexpectedly called home to the Lord at the age of 61. Gay was heartbroken. Just ten days later, her beloved mother also passed, compounding her grief.

For a time, the light dimmed in Gay’s vibrant spirit. Even the work she had loved for so long no longer brought her joy. She chose to retire and found herself in a season of searching. During this time, she returned to the faith she had known since childhood. In 2006, Gay joined Bible Study Fellowship (BSF), where she immersed herself in Scripture, rekindled her relationship with Jesus, and experienced a profound spiritual renewal. Her joy was restored—deeper, brighter, and more infectious than ever.

Then came one of her life’s greatest joys: becoming a grandmother. In 2007, Gay stood in the delivery room as her grandson Isaac was born. “We were both crying,” she’d often recall with a tender smile. Just a year and a half later, Joseph arrived, and with them, a new calling unfolded—full-time grandma, joyful homemaker, faithful friend, and servant of God. Her home overflowed with laughter, children’s voices, and happy barks from beloved dogs. Everyone was welcomed, hearts were lifted, and memories were made daily in her warm, loving presence.

Gay’s life was also richly colored by adventure and deep friendships. She shared countless unforgettable moments with lifelong friends—sailing her 40-foot boat with Kaytie (to the terror of nearby boat owners), motorcycle trips across states with spontaneous encounters from curious biker groups, a meaningful pilgrimage to Israel that included re-baptism in the Jordan River and visits to sites tied to her favorite apostle, “my guy Paul,” as she affectionately called him. From skiing in Sun Valley with Darlene to attending the opera and tulip festivals with Doreen, and walking the Camino de Santiago with Cindy—her adventures were as bold and beautiful as her spirit.

Gay lived a life of deep purpose, joyful spontaneity, and unwavering love. She gave generously of her time, her wisdom, and her heart.

She is lovingly survived by her devoted daughter Mimi (Randy), her cherished brother Wayne (Dianne), and her adored grandchildren: Ian, Logan, Austin, Isaac, and Joseph. She also leaves behind her beloved nephews: Rich (Stacy), David (Dana), Shaun, and Chris (Kelsey).

Though her physical presence is no longer with us, her light, laughter, and legacy of faith and love will live on in all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Saddlerock Presbyterian Church at 1400 Miller Street in Wenatchee. 

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Bible Study Fellowship at www.bsfinternational.org.