Sandra “Sandi” Kay Tinkler, loving mother and grandmother, fulfilled her life’s work on Jan. 29, 2021, at the age of 77. She was born on Dec. 26, 1943, in Colorado Springs, Colo., to Kenneth and Sylvia Drumm. 

Sandi moved around much during her childhood due to her father being in the military. Sandi graduated from Pecos High School in Texas. She then attended Sul Ross State University in Alpine, Texas. After graduation, she took a job with Fort Stockton ISD, Texas, where she was a speech and drama teacher. 

While working for Fort Stockton ISD, she met the love of her life, Jim Tinkler. Sandi and Jim were married in 1967, and began their life together in Fort Stockton. In 1972, she gave birth to her only child, Wayne.

At this time, Sandi was a mother and homemaker, but she still wanted to do more for the community. In 1978, Sandi and six others started the EMS in Fort Stockton, before it was run by the fire department. During her time as an EMT, she obtained the status of EMT Special Skills. While in the EMS, she touched so many people through teaching, educating kids, and saving patients. After 13 years “721” - her EMS number - retired from the service. 

In 1993 she moved to the ranch where she and Jim lived for many years. During her time at the ranch, she was the bookkeeper, cooked for cow works, grew gourds, took pictures of the ranch, and watched the baby goats being born. 

Sandi loved her family. While Wayne was young, it was a must for her family to sit down for Sunday evening dinner. Christmastime was special to her, and the house was always decorated and looked so inviting.

Sandi was involved with the Panther Moms while Wayne was in high school. The Panther moms would decorate signs, paint sidewalks, cook meals, and make snacks for the football players. Sandi also had a passion for theater and drama.

The greatest love of her life was her only grandson, James Tinkler, or “My Grandson.” Sandi enjoyed her time at the ranch with James when he was young. As James grew older, their time was limited, but she would always call and ask about her grandson. We will always love you mother!

Sandiwas preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Syliva Drumm, and her sisters Suzie Kramer and Louann Shahandeh.

She is survived by her husband, Jim Tinkler, son Wayne Tinkler and his wife Beverly of Fort Stockton, and her grandson James Tinkler.

The graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 5, 2021, at East Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Fort Stockton Community Theater.

Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at  heritagefuneralhomeofthebigbend.com.