Sandra C Gatliff-Goggin

Sandra Charlotte Gatliff-Goggin passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family on June 15, 2025, one week after celebrating her 90th birthday. She was the beloved only child of Scott Eugene Gatliff and Katherine Stanley Moore Gatliff, who preceded her in death. Sandra is survived by her devoted husband, Regis James Goggin, Sr., and her loving children: Kathi Michele Goggin-Lewis (Duane Mack Lewis), Regis James Goggin, Jr., Scott Howard Goggin, and Christopher Lee Goggin, Sr. She also leaves behind five cherished grandchildren: Simone Michele Goggin, Saleah Christine Goggin, Christopher Lee Goggin, Jr., Sadia Anne Hildebrand, and Priya Elise Hildebrand. A native of Columbus, Ohio, Sandra graduated from Columbus East High School and went on to earn her bachelor's degree cum laude from The Ohio State University, where she was honored as the first African-American woman selected to the May Queen Court. She later earned her master’s degree in education from Wayne State University and continued on as a Doctoral Candidate in Education. Sandra dedicated her life to early childhood education. She began her teaching career in Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio, before founding and directing a distinguished pre-school in Detroit, Michigan from 1973 to 1982. Her school earned widespread acclaim and attracted families from across the city, including the children of educators, civic leaders, and notable figures such as members of The Four Tops and Gladys Knight. Following this, she returned to teaching in the Detroit Public Schools system until her retirement in 1995. Throughout her career, she also directed student choirs and inspired countless young minds. Sandra’s contributions extended beyond the classroom. She was the Treasurer for the Michigan National Association for the Education of Young Children (MiAEYC) and was a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Columbus, Ohio. A woman of many passions, Sandra was an avid traveler. She enjoyed exploring new vistas with her beloved husband Regis traveling to the Caribbean Islands, Panama, Mexico, Turkey, Italy, France, Great Britan, Spain, Greece, Morocco, Israel, and Switzerland. Skilled at archery as well as tennis, Sandra was chosen to warm-up Althea Gibson before several tennis matches. Bridge clubs were also a passion with Sandra and Regis being members of The Mates for over 20 years. She adored the holidays, especially Christmas, and was known for her beautiful and extensive collection of decorations that brought joy to all who visited her home. Her love of music was a constant in her life—she was a classically trained pianist who studied under Vincent Walters – Academy of Music - as his first student. She set a precedent being so outstanding that it became a thriving business. She continued to excel as a student of Marie Hertenstein Waller. and concluded her advanced studies at Oberlin College. Even after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2008, she continued to find joy at the piano. Sandra’s warmth, mischievous humor, and deep love for her family and friends made her a treasured presence in every room. Sandra Charlotte Gatliff Goggin leaves behind a legacy of 90 years of love, learning, creativity, and grace. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched.

Sandra C Gatliff-Goggin

June 8, 1935 - June 15, 2025