ROTTERDAM –

Sandra "Sandy" Lee Fain, 71, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026, surrounded by her family and friends. 

Sandra was born in Schenectady, New York on November 14, 1954, to Raymer and Elizabeth Dean. Sandy attended Mohonasen High School in Rotterdam, NY. Sandy was a longtime employee of the Kesselring Site in West Milton, NY, where she was one of the only women in that field. She earned the deep respect and life-long friendships of many of the people she worked with.Sandy lived life to the fullest, with a carefree spirit and a heart of gold, embracing every moment with joy and adventure. She loved spending time with her family and friends, the ocean, camping, fishing, music (especially Lady Gaga and Melissa Etheridge), the Boston Red Sox, and long car rides that often turned into adventures far past her intended destination. A passionate animal advocate, she volunteered at Pretty Paws in Schenectady and supported the Animal Protective Foundation however she could.Known as the life of the party, Sandy’s presence lit up every room she entered. What set Sandy apart was her extraordinary generosity. She gave freely of her time, her energy, and her love, never hesitating to put others before herself. Caring for those around her was not something she did — it was who she was. She showed up without being asked, offered comfort without condition, and supported others without expecting anything in return. She had a rare and beautiful gift for making people feel important, understood, and deeply valued.

Sandy was a devoted mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, cousin, co-worker, and friend who poured love into every relationship.Sandy lived adventurously, loved endlessly, and gave selflessly. The impact she made on the lives around her is immeasurable. Though she will be profoundly missed, the joy and love she shared so abundantly will continue to live on in all who were blessed to know her.

Sandra is survived by her children- Walter Bala and Nicole Fain (Luke), her grandchildren, and her sisters, Barbara Alfree and Linda Stack. Sandra is also survived by her nieces Jessica Knight (Dave), Melissa Youngs, Danny Stack, as well as many other nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends.Sandra is predeceased by her brothers Allen Relyea, Bruce Relyea, and John Relyea.No words could truly express the loss we feel without her in this world or how deeply she will be missed.

A celebration of Sandra’s life will be held at the Schenectady Veterans-World War Building in Schenectady, NY, on March 7, 2026 from 1pm-4pm. The address is 718 Union Street Schenectady, NY 12305.In honor of Sandra’s love for animals, the family welcomes contributions to the Animal Protective Foundation (APF) in Scotia, NY.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com