Sondra "Sandy" Ernst, beloved wife, mother, nana, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 8, 2024, at The Landings of Oak Island, North Carolina.

Earlier this year, she joyfully celebrated her 90th birthday surrounded by loved ones — a milestone that reflected the full and vibrant life she lived.

She is survived by her loving children Elisa Rosenberg and her husband Neil, Larry Ernst, Susan Kaminsky and her husband Scott, and her dear brother Joseph Kantor and his wife Linda. Sondra was predeceased by her devoted husband of nearly 50 years, Herbert “Herbie” Ernst, and her cherished son, Mark Ernst.

She also leaves behind her adoring grandchildren, who will forever remember her as their Nana Sandy: Rachel, Lacey, Harrison, Spencer, and Olivia, along with her first great-grandchild, Maren. Each of them brought her immense pride and joy, and she loved nothing more than bragging about their accomplishments to her friends.

Born to Hyman and Molly Kantrowitz in the Bronx on May 25, 1934, Sondra spent her childhood in the Bronx, where she developed lifelong friendships and a love of adventure. She met her husband, Herbie in Far Rockaway, Queens, where she first embraced the thrill of roller derby — a pastime that perfectly reflected her spirited and bold nature.

Sondra began her career as a lab technician, but her passion for nurturing and teaching others led her back to school to earn her bachelor’s degree and become an elementary school teacher in Parsippany, New Jersey. Her students adored her, and she quickly became a beloved figure in their lives, known for her engaging lessons, kindness, and dedication.

As a nana, Sondra was the epitome of love and warmth. Her grandchildren fondly recall sleepovers filled with laughter, where they were spoiled with waffles with ice cream for breakfast. Summers were a highlight at the Parsippany home she shared with Herbie, where countless pool parties brought family together and created lasting memories.

Sondra also had a zest for life’s little indulgences. Her guilty pleasures — chicken parmesan, Nathan’s hot dogs, and a hot fudge sundae with extra fudge — were shared generously with loved ones. She delighted in taking her grandchildren on shopping sprees to the Rockaway Mall, turning simple outings into cherished traditions filled with thoughtful gifts and endless joy.

In her later years, Sondra found contentment in devouring mystery novels, immersing herself in crime and horror TV shows, and, above all, sharing laughter and love with her family. Through every chapter of her life, she radiated generosity, resilience, and an unwavering devotion to those she held dear.

She is deeply loved and will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Donations in Sondra’s memory can be made to Reading Partners, readingpartners.org.