Sandra Mae Epperson was born October 26, 1940 to William and Edna Glaze Epperson in Walnut, IL. She grew up in Walnut and graduated from Walnut High School. She then attended Illinois State University in Normal, IL earning a bachelor’s Degree in Art Education. Sandy then made her home in Morrison, IL and began to teach Art in the grade schools. Many remember her patient and encouraging manner. “Miss Epperson” married Richard T Rideout on December 31, 1969 in Walnut. To that union was born a daughter, Elisa Nicole “Nicki” Rideout. After the birth of Elisa Nicole, Sandy gave up teaching to focus on the upbringing of her beloved daughter.
In later years, Sandy worked at the Morrison True Value store and The Odell Public Library.
Sandy was a member of the Natural Area Guardians as she had a great appreciation for nature and conservation. She and her daughter established a business called “Snug as a Bug,” marketing woven rag rugs. Sandy was also an accomplished quilter and an artist in many media. The Odell Public Library has a large mural in the Children’s section which was designed and painted by Sandy and her daughter.
In her early Morrison years , she was active with the Morrison Music Theater Association as an actor and a props and set design collaborator. She enjoyed traveling and often spoke of a memorable trip to England and Scotland with her close friend, Bette Hall.
Above all, Sandy loved her home, her family, and her cats. She was endlessly resourceful and creative; a friend described her as “a person with a clever, creative mind with a twist of humor.” Sandy was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her daughter, and her brother, Roy.
She is survived by a brother Lewis, of Walnut, a nephew, Scott Epperson, and a niece, Christina Caney.
Cremation rites have been accorded by McDonald Funeral Home in Rock Falls. There will be no funeral service per Sandy’s wishes.
Online condolences may be sent to www.mcdonaldfuneralhomes.com.
