Sandra Lee Rich Cox, 81, of Haughton, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Born on September 16, 1944, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Sandy was the eldest daughter of Irwin and Gladys Caswell. She married her high school sweetheart, Michael G. Rich, in 1961, and together they raised three boys who loved God, family, and raising Cain.

Being the only woman in the house made her tough, and she never backed away from a fight. An educator at heart, Sandy was never afraid to voice her opinion or tell you what was wrong with your car, with you, or with your opinions. She worked various jobs throughout her life, most notably as a waitress, and always proudly shared that Elvis personally requested her as his waitress.

Outside of work, Sandy had an enormous heart for animals—especially the mistreated, abandoned, or overlooked. She tirelessly cared for them until they became part of the family. That compassion began in childhood with an old doll named Susie that she rescued from a dump. Though the doll "could scare a dog off a meat wagon," Sandy loved her as if she were brand new and treasured her for the rest of her life. Susie helped shape the lifelong compassion that defined Sandy's character: she always wanted to help others and leave every situation better than she found it.

Sandy will be remembered for her bold spirit, unwavering loyalty, quick wit, and remarkable ability to love people despite their faults.

She is survived by her husband, Cecil Cox; her sons, Mike (Nikki) Rich and Jason Rich; her beloved grandchildren, Kyra, Kayla, Bryanna, Gabrielle, Lance, Kody, Heather, Blayne, and Destiny; and 18 great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry her legacy forward.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Irwin and Gladys Caswell; her first husband, Michael G. Rich; her son, Lance Dean Rich; and her sister, Charlotte Easton.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 12, at 10:00 a.m. at Aulds Funeral Home, 7849 E. Kings Hwy, Shreveport, Louisiana.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a tree be planted in Sandy's honor.

Though her physical presence will be deeply missed, her strength, humor, and fierce love will continue to guide those who knew and loved her.