Sandra Lea Miller, 62, of Idaho Falls, died June 22, 2007, at the home of her daughter, in Idaho Falls, Idaho. She was born October 25, 1944, in Stone County, Missouri, to James Pendergrass and Eunice Marie Miller.

When Sandra was five years old, her mother married John Roy Newman. The family grew during the following years with the birth of six additional children. Due to Sandra being the oldest she had the responsibility of helping with the younger children. Sandra was the "big sister" and all the younger siblings sought her advice and company throughout her life. She loved her brothers and sisters very much and was the best "big sister" ever.

She married Maynard Gilson in 1962, in Richland, Washington. To that union Deborah (Robert) Austin (Idaho Falls, Idaho) was born. They later divorced.

She married Carl Carlson in 1965, in Idaho Falls, Idaho. To that union three children were born. Suzanne Carlson (Shelley, Idaho), Douglas Carlson (Littlefield, Texas), and Matthew Carlson (Idaho Falls, Idaho). Sandra and Carl later divorced.

Sandra's grandchildren: Joshua, Heather, Jessica, Rebecca, Zachary, McKenzie, Samantha, Alex, Kaiden, and five great grandchildren were the light of her life.

Sandra's home was a gathering place for family and friends, and everyone was always welcome. The coffee and good conversation was always available. She leaves behind many good friends.

Sandra is survived by her children and grandchildren listed above and the following siblings: Sharon (Ray) Hamilton (Shelley, Idaho), Roy Dean (Shawn) Newman (Ft. Lauderdale, Florida) Floy (Joana) Newman, Troy (Debbie) Newman, Michael (Teresa) Newman, all of Galena, Kansas, and Karen Saidai (Skokie, Illinois).

Her parents and her stepfather preceded Sandra in death.

A Memorial service will be held at Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First St., Idaho Falls, Idaho, on July 3, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. A private burial will be held at a later date.

Online condolences may be made to the family at www.coltrinmortuary.com.