Sondra Jan Hartsell

Sondra Jan Hartsell, a strong, intelligent, and determined woman, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on December 22, 1939, in Shamrock, Texas to Hollis and Estelle Rainey, Sondra lived a life defined by resilience, high standards, and a fierce devotion to those she loved. Sondra graduated from Shamrock High School before continuing her education at Draughon’s Business School in Amarillo, Texas. She later earned her business degree from East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma. She then obtained her paralegal certification from the University of Oklahoma. A sharp mind with a strong work ethic, Sondra spent the majority of her professional life working with attorneys, where she was known for her precision, integrity and no-nonsense approach. In the later years of her career, she transitioned into mental health administration, bringing compassion and structure to a field that benefited from them both. She eventually retired with a reputation for competence, clarity and leadership. Sondra was a proud member of Beta Sigma Phi, a women’s organization centered on service and personal growth. Never one to back down from a challenge, she also earned a brown belt in Tae Kwon Do, a testament to her discipline and determination. Though she had a deep appreciation for structure and order, Sondra also had a love of reading Science Fiction, often diving into imaginative worlds that matched her sharp intellect. She was a critical thinker, a problem solver, and a woman who believed in facing life head -on with clarity, strength, and a sense of duty. Sondra was a devoted mother . She approached motherhood with the same strength and sense of responsibility that defined her career, instilling independence and resilience in her children. Sondra is survived by a son, Terry Harsell of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and her daughter, Monta Brown and husband, Jamey, of Troy, Oklahoma; Her grandchildren, Erin and husband, Jeremiah Wigington of Oklahoma City, Jessica Brown -StClair of Tishomingo, Eric Hartsell and wife, Rebecca of Tishomingo, Jennifer and husband, Duane Cobble of Tishomingo, and Amber M. Hartsell of Elk City, Oklahoma. Her great-grandchildren, Tilda Green, Noah and Willa Wigington; Mikela Morse; Dylan, Dextyn and Daya StClair; Chad and Sarah Hartsell; Knox, Wade, Kieri and Noah Cobble; Cheyenne and Bailey Stepp. Great-great grandchild, Kynslee Ann Green. Sondra is also survived by her brother, Ron Rainey, and wife, Pam of Carrollton, Texas; niece, Shelley Rainey and great nephew and niece, Joshua and Lexi Rainey Sondra was preceded in death by her parents, husband, G. W. Hartsell (who passed away in July 1969), a son, George Hartsell, granddaughter, Chrysti Roberts and a nephew, Steve Rainey. Sondra’s influence will be felt for generations, not only in her family, but in the many people who learned from her example. She lived her life with focus, accountability, and love that was demonstrated more through action than words. Sondra Hartsell will be remembered not just for the love she gave, but for the standards she held, the example she set, and the legacy of strength and determination she leaves behind.

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Sondra Jan Hartsell

December 22, 1939 - August 19, 2025