Sandra Ward GREIFF (Sandy to everyone who knew her) died peacefully in her sleep on October 8, 2026, while a resident of Elderwood at Hornell. She was 90 years old. 

Sandy is survived by her children, Andrew Trice (Christine Ebangi) and Jennifer (Tamara Knapp) Trice, her stepson, Luis Greiff, her grandchildren Hannah Brown Trice and Heath Brown Trice, and by her husband of 40 years, Lou Greiff.  

Sandy was born in Wellsville, NY to Churchill and Louise Ward on January 22, 1936. Her education began at Martin Street School, then Wellsville High School, then Buffalo State College, where she earned a degree in art education, and finally at Alfred University, where she earned a master’s degree. Sandy’s teaching career in art and art history began in Irondequoit, but she eventually returned to the Southern Tier where she first taught for BOCES at three schools, Scio, Allentown and Whitesville. Years later Sandy accepted a full-time position at Scio Central School, where she taught until her retirement. 

Sandy also contributed to the arts in Alfred, her home community, by mounting a gallery show of works by local artists. Also, working with her close friends Margaret Rasmussen and Carole Onoda, she helped preserve and organize the Paul Vickers Gardener glass collection that was willed to Alfred University. She was also involved for many years in Wee Playhouse with her friends, known as “The Quilties.” Beyond the arts, Sandy loved to travel both with her husband Lou, and with her close friends Barbara Greil, Carole Onoda and Judy Samber. More than anything, Sandy loved her family and her many close friends. In all, Sandy lived a meaningful and exciting life. She once appeared on the cover of Life magazine and was once kissed by Willie Nelson (!). She will be missed greatly by everyone who knew her. 

The family has planned a private gathering and interment. In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial contribution to Alzheimer’s Disease research. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes, 34 West State Street, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.