Sandra Brownlee Erickson, lovingly known as Sandy, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2026 in Bradenton, Florida with her daughter by her side.

Sandy was born on November 13, 1945, in Beulah, Michigan and then her family relocated to Suttons Bay at a very young age. She was a proud graduate of Suttons Bay High School, Class of 1963, where she made history as the school’s first Homecoming Queen. In 1964, she married David Erickson of Traverse City, Michigan, beginning a devoted marriage that lasted until his passing in 2009. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Paula Erickson, in 1971.

The family lived and worked in Michigan before relocating to Port Angeles, WA, following the sale of the family business. They later lived in both Port Angeles and Seattle before returning to northern Michigan, where they moved into her cherished family home in Suttons Bay.

After returning to northern Michigan, Sandy was employed by Coldwell Banker Schmidt where she worked for more than a decade. She was valued for her dedication and built many lasting relationships with her co-workers.

After the passing of her husband, Sandy devoted herself to caring for her mother until her mother’s passing in 2018. In her later years, she split her time between Traverse City, Michigan, and Bradenton, Florida.

Sandy was known for her warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm for life. She served on her HOA board and enjoyed golfing, spending time at the beach, and listening to music. She was a lifelong animal lover whose compassion extended to all animals she encountered. Sandy is survived by her daughter, Paula Erickson; her brother, David Brownlee and her sister, Nikki Harris; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. A small graveside service will be held on May 30 at 11:00 a.m. at Memorial Gardens on Veterans Drive in Traverse City.

Following the graveside service, all family and friends are invited to attend a MEMORIAL GATHERING IN HONOR OF SANDY from 12:00 - 3:00 pm at the top of the Park Place Hotel downtown Traverse City.

This gathering will be a time to share memories, celebrate her life, and honor the love she brought to so many. Food and refreshments will be provided, and all who knew and loved Sandy are warmly encouraged to attend.

Sandy will be profoundly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her.