With deep love and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Sandra Sue Dunlap Cox, who left this world peacefully on May 5, 2025, at the age of 89. She was the heart and soul of our family — a woman whose love was quiet but constant, whose joy was found in simple moments, and whose legacy will live on through generations.
Born on September 6, 1935, Sandra embraced the role of wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother with unwavering devotion. Her life’s greatest fulfillment came from being present with her family — whether gathered around a dinner table, sharing stories, or simply sitting together in quiet companionship. She didn’t need grandeur to be happy; she only needed the people
she loved.
In her younger years, Sandra found joy in bowling leagues, playing pinochle and bridge with close friends, and creating beautiful things with a needle and thread. As the years passed, her creativity found new life in scrapbooking, where she carefully crafted photo albums for each of her children and grandchildren — timeless gifts that now hold even
greater meaning.
One of Sandra’s favorite places on earth was Fort Bragg, California. She and her beloved husband Hap, along with dear friends, owned the Wages Creek Campground, a place filled with memories, laughter, and the kind of peace only found by the ocean.
Sandra was preceded in death by her loving husband Hap, her son Mike, her parents James and Ida Dunlap, and her brother Jarrett Dunlap. While her heart held that grief, it also swelled with love for those who remained.
She leaves behind her daughter Kim Gunnoe (Woody), her son Pat Cox (Christine), and her grandchildren Craig Dunn (Sara), Melissa Rainsbarger (Josh), Michelle Cox (James), Mandisa Tincup (Matt), and Alana Anderson (Tyler). Her family continued to grow with great-grandchildren Madison Martin (John), Ben Rainsbarger, Nathaniel Raj, Cayden Raj, Jada Raj, Kaymen Dunn, Kingsley Dunn Arlo Cox, and great-great-grandchildren Macie Martin, Mallory Martin, and John Martin II. Each of them carries a piece of her — in their hearts, their stories, and their lives.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 17th from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at Sandra’s home:
66 Hartley Drive,
Colusa, CA.
All are welcome to join us in remembering and honoring the gentle, loving spirit of a woman who meant so much to so many.
Sandra Sue Dunlap Cox was, and always will be, the heartbeat of our family. She taught us how to love deeply, give generously, and treasure the small moments. She will be missed beyond measure and remembered with every hug, every story, and every glance at the photo albums she so lovingly made.
Thursday, June 19, 2025