Paula, so very sorry to learn about your mother's passing. While I didn't know her beyond visiting with her at church, I am so grateful to have known her. Her messages on the Sundays she filled in for a minister were among my favorite Sundays. Her wit and humor was like no one I have ever known before or since. She touched my life in a way that brings a smile to my face every time I hear her name. I am certain she was a truly wonderful mother and friend to you and a true blessing to all who were lucky enough to have known her. My deepest
sympathy for your loss. Sincerely, Sandy Swore-McCright
Sandra K. Swore-McCright
June 29, 2025
I am so sorry that I was unable to attend the remembrance service for Sally today. I had planned to be there to honor her.
I first saw Sally in 1987 at Region #20 Sweet Adelines contest when she directed Cedar Rhapsody Chorus. I thought she was such a classy-looking lady. At contest, the judges would announce the placements starting with fifth up to first. We always anxiously awaited the word "Cedar", but it was always Cedar Rhapsody in the top 5 and never our chorus, Cedar Harmony, until 1987 when we earned 3rd. We were elated, and the judge said she never saw a chorus so thrilled with 3rd place! Sally was among the first to heartily congratulate us on our big accomplishment. Years later she was our coach for Harmony Rox Quartet from Waverly and Cedar Falls. She was the first on her feet when we were announced 4th place. We'll never forget the pride on her face. She also directed our Cedar Harmony Chorus in Cedar Falls for many years.
Thank you, Sally, for sharing your God-given talents with the world. Your contribution to others' success will not be forgotten. Deepest condolences to your family.
Marilynn Buxton
June 26, 2025
I met Sally at bowling. I loved to hear her stories about her singing career! She was a fun person to be around.
Deb Strunk
June 26, 2025
I sang in Cedar Rapids Chorus back in the late 1970’s, as tenor, soon realizing that was a stretch, then went to lead. Sally was a great teacher in singing, learned much from her in praising, the electricity in barbershop harmony. Then great fear struck when this wall flower was chosen to be the one come to life in front of the chorus, singing - well mouthing the words - to In The Mood! Did not know it required much outward motion! Learned much from Sally’s direction, barbershop leading to singing in the Cedar Rapids Chorale for 10 years. Sally was as much down to earth as a great soul, and mentor of this journey called life. St Peters chorus has a new director. Joyful singing can be heard if we listen closely, just behind The Veil. Rest easy Sally. Thank you for your friendship and teaching. See you later.
Lucy Davis
June 25, 2025
I met Sally at bowling and became great friends. We had similar interests, especially writing. We shared so many life stories. She was an amazingly beautiful woman inside and out. I have no doubt she is entertaining in heaven right now. What a privilege it was to know and love that earth angel.
Luwonna Brinkerhoff
June 19, 2025
I met Sally at bowling and became great friends. We had similar interests, especially writing. We shared so many life stories. She was an amazingly beautiful woman inside and out. I have no doubt she is entertaining in heaven right now. What a privilege it was to know and love that earth angel.
Luwonna Brinkerhoff
June 19, 2025
I knew Sally from our Support groups of families who lost children and for sitting on victim impact panels.
Sally was a classy lady with a huge personality! Everyone she met fell in love with her. Although I haven’t seen Sally in a long time I have and will never forget her. Rest in peace my dear friend. I will see you on the other side one day soon. 🙏❤️
Linda Sorenson
June 18, 2025
I knew Sally from our Support groups of families who lost children and for sitting on victim impact panels.
Sally was a classy lady with a huge personality! Everyone she met fell in love with her. Although I haven’t seen Sally in a long time I have and will never forget her. Rest in peace my dear friend. I will see you on the other side one day soon. 🙏❤️
Linda Sorenson
June 18, 2025
Sally always made me laugh! Such a bright LIGHT of love, certainly now singing with everyone on the other side!!
Love to you Sally, and a peaceful journey back home!
Peggy Ernster (formerly Andrews)
Peggy Ernster
June 18, 2025
Delpha Gibney. Judy also sang with the Sweet Adalines. Know she will be missed.
J’Andrea Kolsto Gibney
June 18, 2025
My deepest sympathies, Linda
Linda McNamara Early
June 18, 2025
I met Sally when she directed Cedar Harmony Chorus. I learned a great deal from her. But she was also a caring and funny woman. She has influenced countless lives and she will be greatly missed. Her legacy through music will long be remembered!
Elizabeth Hancock
June 17, 2025
My deepest sympathy goes out to all of Sally’s family and friends. She was one of the most incredible women I have ever met in my life. I loved my years of singing with the Cedar Rhapsody Chorus. She introduced me to a whole new world of music. I loved to sing but didn’t know how to read music, having learned to sing by listening to the radio, and she was so patient with me and always placed me next to someone who sang my part so I could latch on to them. All of my life I have always said that I am a hitchhiker when it comes to music. I sing whatever I hear and more than once I would sing a baritone note instead of lead. It was such a privilege to sing under Sally’s direction and especially going to Washington DC and competing in the very first International Competition for choruses. She also taught me the phrase “She who sings, prays twice.” Thank you Sally for leaving a lasting impression on my life.❤️💕🙏🙏
Kathy Wickham
June 17, 2025
I won't forget you Sally, & I loved that we shared a Birthday! We'd always joke that we were "twins"! Thank you for being a part of my journey & sharing stories of your wonderful life!!
Paul Lundy
June 17, 2025