Sandra “Sandy” Carlile: Dec. 25, 1954-Aug. 5, 2026

Sandra “Sandy” Carlile, 71, graduated from this life in the early hours of Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at her daughter’s residence in Kerrville, TX surrounded by her daughter and son-in-law and their deep love for her.

Like a gift to the world, Sandy was born Christmas Day, 1954 in Texarkana, AR to John Robert “Bob” and Caroline Spencer. Having been a throughline in the background of her life, Sandy ultimately found her calling in bowling and the bowling community and fostering community is what she did.

For forty-three years Sandy managed Abilene Bowling Lanes until its eventual closing in 2023. Beyond the requisites of her job description, she provided a space where all were welcome, was a friendly face to many, and was very much the matriarch of the lanes. Rarely missing a day of work or taking time off, Sandy faithfully dedicated herself to her profession and to the people of ABL, co-worker and customer alike. Her warmth, quick wit, and desire to serve resonated louder than the crash of pins and machinery at the Lanes and continues to impact the lives she touched in her time there.

In the hours between serving her community, Sandy was well-read and spent much of her time reading, having read thousands of books in her lifetime. She also loved dogs, having given many dogs great lives throughout her own life. Sandy passionately loved those closest to her and was always present for those closest to her in times of need.

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents; sister Deborah Spencer, stepson Lonnie Carlile, and daughter-in-law Aimee Carlile.

Sandy is survived by brothers, Mike Spencer and wife Holly of Midlothian, Rocky Spencer and wife Cindy of Breckenridge, Dean Spencer and wife Christie of Breckenridge; her daughter, Becky Nichols and husband Cody of Kerrville; her stepdaughter Stephanie Potter of Abilene; 5 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, and loyal dog Reacher.

Services are pending. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Texas Round Up Animal Alliance would be appreciated and can be made at TRUAA.org.