Deaconess Sandra L. (Burton) Hagans-Wright

UTICA - Deaconess Sandra L. (Burton) Hagans-Wright, age 82, went home to the Lord on Tuesday, September 19, 2023. Born on April 2, 1941 in Millsboro, Delaware to the late Joshua and Roseanna (Pierce) Burton, Sandra was raised in the community and educated in their local schools. Sandra knew the blessing of two marriages and upon the death of her first husband, Mr. Hagans, she married Elester Wright, Jr. on February 4, 1974. She devoted herself as a housewife, taking care each day to make sure the household, and everyone in it, was well taken care of. Sandra also committed herself to her faith, her ministry, her marriages, and those she served. Her sweet heart and soul made her easy to love and allowed her to effortlessly share the Lord’s love with others. When circumstances changed in Sandra’s life, she found her way back to Utica and was welcomed by loved ones. She was spirited and wanted to live the last part of her earthly journey among people and chose the Pines at Utica to call home. She enjoyed spending her free time doing word searches and watched old Western movies 24 hours a day. Sandra valued education, because as a young person she was not afforded this opportunity. Later in life, she attended BOCES to work toward her GED, fulfilling one of her life’s dreams. Sandra was instrumental in bringing Pastor James Lilley, the head of the Nursing Home Ministry and members of Deliverance First Ministries to the Pines with the word of the Lord and with music, which she so loved. At services, as expected, Sandra would be in the front awaiting the word to be shared. Her title of Deaconess came from the Bishop’s recognition of her being blessed with the Holy Spirit and a shining light to follow. She was affectionate with love which was a part of her calling. Most notable about Sandra was her ability to pray with great intention. She attended Bible study with great devotion and was present at every program offered by the Church. She proudly served on the Mother’s Board and was of the highest caliber of person. She is now resting in peace. Sandra will be missed by her family and the congregation of Deliverance First Ministries, Church of the Living God. Sandra will remain in the hearts of her numerous siblings; step-children, Elester Wright II, and Dewayne Wright and their families; step-grandchildren, including Robert Perry-Wright; numerous in-laws, especially Michael and Carrie Wright; a devoted friend, Deacon Rufus Holliman; her community of faith; and Bishop Hughes and her family. The staff at Pines at Utica was extremely compassionate and benevolent in their care of Sandra, beginning with their warm welcome and continuing through providing her a pleasant environment throughout her time there. Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 30, 2023 from 2:30-3:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South Street, corner of Hammond Ave. Sandra’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will commence at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Deaconess Sandra L. (Burton) Hagans-Wright

April 2, 1941 - September 19, 2023