Sandra Brunson

On October 6, 2025, in Westland, Michigan, the world grew a little quieter as our matriarch, Sandra Mae Brunson, took her peaceful rest — leaving behind a legacy that will forever speak louder than words.

Sandra was born on February 10, 1954, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Willie D. and Willie Lee Brunson. As the oldest of five children, she embodied strength, faith, and compassion—qualities that became her lifelong trademarks.

A proud graduate of Murray Wright High School, Sandra went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts in English from Wayne State University. She devoted her professional life to the City of Detroit Police Department, where she served with excellence, professionalism, and integrity. Her work ethic, fairness, and dedication to her city left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of serving alongside her.

Sandra's influence extended far beyond her career. A woman of remarkable grace, purpose, and generosity, she was known for her ability to uplift, inspire, and support others. She had a true green thumb—her home flourished like a living garden, filled with vibrant plants that reflected her love, discipline, and care. She faithfully attended church, where she served as an usher and greeter, always welcoming others with a warm smile and an encouraging word.

A lover of arts, music, and good conversation, Sandra found joy in creativity and community. Her famous peach cobbler became a family tradition, and her kitchen was a classroom of love—where she taught countless people how to cook, sew, read, and even drive. She believed that everyone had the capacity for greatness and made it her mission to help others reach it. No task was ever too small or too great for her to assist with.

Sandra was a beacon of mentorship and community leadership. She proudly served as a Den Mother and leader of the Falcon Drum and Bugle Corps, guiding and uplifting young people across Detroit. Known for her dedication to youth development, she emphasized discipline, confidence, and community pride—helping generations of Detroiters realize their potential.

Her heart for youth shone brightly through her work as an academic tutor for the young girls of the Figure Skating in Detroit program. There, she nurtured brilliance both on and off the ice, guiding many young women toward academic excellence, self-confidence, and professional achievement. In May 2025, Sandra was honored for her extraordinary impact and steadfast commitment to their success. She was immensely proud of the girls she mentored and often encouraged others to join, so more young women could experience the power of education, sisterhood, and self-belief.

Sandra's legacy of mentorship extended even further. She volunteered with The Delta Gems, helping young women prepare for college through resume and grant-writing workshops, career coaching, and confidence-building mentorship. Her compassion also reached survivors of domestic violence, as she served as a domestic violence advocate, providing support, resources, and hope to those rebuilding their lives.

Sandra's faith in God was the foundation of her life. She lived by the principle that service to others is service to God, and her radiant smile, elegant presence, and steady strength will remain etched in the hearts of all who knew her.

She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved son, Joseph Brunson; her devoted siblings, Yvette Brunson, Willie Brunson (Shelly), and Towana Polk; her dedicated nephews, Leonard Brunson and Quintel Brunson; and her loving nieces, Quintaria Brunson, SanTina Brunson, Tamiera Charleston (Alex), and Jaquira Polk.

She also leaves behind her cherished great-nephews, Juwon Brunson, Marchon Mitchell, Justin Brunson, and Dawson Jackson, Israel Charleston, and her precious great-nieces, Jazzmyn Brunson, Yhazmyn Brunson, Jaliyah Brunson, Aanya Brunson, and Alisha Brunson, and Great-great niece, Braelynn LittleJohn, along with a host of cousins, godchildren, extended family, and more dear friends to count who adored her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Willie D. and Willie Lee Brunson; her sister, Ella Kaye Brunson; her brother, Gregory Smith; and other loved ones who welcomed her into eternal rest.

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice knowing that Sandra's work here is complete. Her spirit will forever guide the Brunson family—reminding us to love fiercely, live faithfully, and walk boldly in purpose.