Sandra L. Wighton passed away on June 5, 2026, at the UW Hospital in Madison. She was born on February 17, 1940, to parents, Louis A. Shanrock and Mildred E. (Smellie) in Toledo, OH.

Sandra was a graduate of Towson State University. She began her career in education in Baltimore, MD, teaching English and Drama at Patterson High School. Sandra became principal at Western High School in 1979 which continued through 1994. During her tenure, she played a key role in encouraging the school to adopt a mascot, which ultimately became the Doves. She was given the Greater Baltimore Committee Principal Award in 1984. After her position at Western High School, she was appointed Area Assistant Superintendent for the Southeast Area of the City of Baltimore City Public School System.

In her retirement, Sandra enjoyed volunteering at the Maryland SPCA for several years. She enjoyed traveling, gardening and was an avid golfer. Among her favorite experiences was a trip to the Pebble Beach golf course on California’s Monterey Peninsula. Sandra also had a deep appreciation for the arts and was a subscribing patron of the Baltimore Symphony and Everyman Theatre.

Sandra is survived by her brother, Sheldon (Charlene) Shanrock, PA: sister, Denise (Gary) Spann, WI; nieces, Jill (Bob) Walsh, PA, Juliet Shanrock Ray, AL, and Melia Livingstone, WA; nephews, Ryan (Ieng) Shanrock, AR and Jeremy (Kate) Spann, WI; and friend, Shirley Williams, DE. She was preceded in death by her husband, John Wighton.

Sandra will be deeply and lovingly remembered by her family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Memorials may be made to the Maryland SPCA. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Fitchburg

Funeral & Cremation Care

2950 Chapel Valley Road

(608) 442-5002

Sandra Lee Wighton

February 17, 1940 - June 05, 2026

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