Sandra “Sandy” J. El-Chami, 69, a devoted daughter of Christ, wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on August 30, 2025. Sandy was born on December 24, 1955 in Wichita, Kansas to Prisciliano and Henrietta “Ricky” Chavez where she spent her childhood years creating mischief with her four siblings and countless cousins. She is known for her soft, compassionate heart and strong sense of justice, always fighting for the “underdog.” Sandy was a hard worker during her nearly thirty years of service for the US Postal Service before enjoying retirement.
Sandy is preceded in death by her husband, Ziad El-Chami; parents, Prisciliano and Henrietta Chavez; and brother, Paul Chavez. She is survived by daughters, Chantel (Cliff) Toosley, Elisa (James) Hutton, Layla (Antwon) Scott; sons, Rahif (Nicole) El-Chami, Alexander El-Chami; grandchildren, Bella, Isaiah, Azariah, Nayeli, and Makai; sisters, Cecilia Reyes, Elizabeth Rizo, Rita Hassouneh; and a host of nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at Glorious Bible Church, 1001 N. West Street, Wichita, KS 67203 on Friday, September 5, 2025 at 10:00 am.
Services in care of Downing & Lahey West Mortuary.
Thank you for loving me like one of your own. I will miss you so much. So thankful you will be walking with Jesus now.
I met Sandy back in 1979 thru Julie Arizona and we would go to Discos. We always had a blast and then her and I and Rita all got married within a month if each other. Wonderful person and was sadden when I heard of her passing. You will be missed Sandy. Prayers and hugs to the family
It was an honor knowing this beautiful light through her daughter Layla. I pray for complete strength for the family during this time of transition. I pray that will continue to strengthen the family in love. May her beautiful soul rest in peace 🙏
I will miss Ms. Sandy’s laughter and her beautiful smile.
I would prank call Sandy during the day trying to sell her a Wala Wala Waterbed or asking for donations to the One Legged Foundation to give them a leg to stand on. She would always end the conversation by calling me naughty or ornery and that I’m a horrible influence on Chantel.
Sandy will be missed terribly. She has touched many hearts during her time on Earth.
Sandy married Ziad, my childhood friend, and I got to meet her back in 1983. We became good friends. A soft and loving person. Funny and has that cute innocent laugh She had the same tranquility Ziad had. Loved them both and I enjoyed their company until Allah (God) decided it was time for them to leave us. I held Layla in my arms as a baby and Sandy would tell me, you are going to make a great daddy one day, Khalid. I teased Rahif every time. He was cute and chubby. She was a great mother and wife. I cannot believe she is gone suddenly. I lost my childhood and best friend, Ziad, and now this loving sweet friend, his wife. So long my friend. We are all in the same road and sooner or later, we will leave earth.
I never knew Sandy, but am extremely fond of her beautiful daughter Chantel. From the character of only one of her children, I am certain she lived a life focused on providing love for others and accepting it in return. I offer thoughts of sympathy and compassion to the family of Sandy and all who knew her. Love to you, Chantel, I hope you might feel supported during this period in your life and come to find comfort in time.
I loved Aunt Sandy’s laughter. I have so many memories of when I was a kid and being around all my Chavez family. I am praying for all the family. Love you all ❤️
Sandy was always so welcoming to us neighborhood kids. She will always be missed. A very kind woman with a beautiful heart. Sending hugs and prayers for all of her family. Rest in love Sandy. ♥️