Obituary of Sandra Kaye Renzi

Sandra “Sandy” Renzi, 81, passed away on the morning of Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Buffalo General Hospital following a courageous battle with aggressive thyroid cancer.

Sandra was born on August 8, 1944, to Alice and Gerald Phillips. Raised in Blasdell, NY, she graduated from Frontier High School in 1963. In 1965, she married Arthur Bautz and welcomed her first child, Robyn. Following Arthur’s tragic passing in 1966, Sandra later married James "Jim" E. Renzi in 1967, with whom she shared 53 wonderful years of marriage.

Sandy found joy in life’s simple pleasures: reading, creating ceramics with her mother, beachcombing for shells in Florida, or sharing a beer with friends and family. She was a dedicated supporter of her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events, and cherished her annual tradition of working at the Weidner’s Chicken stand during the Erie County Fair. A passionate fan of the Buffalo Sabres and the Buffalo Bills, she never hesitated to cheer loudly for her teams in her living room. In recent years, she enjoyed spending winters in Port St. Lucie, FL, with her sister and best friend, Net, socializing at the Legion, thrift shopping, and constant beach-going. 

A true fighter in every way, Sandy embodied the belief that strength is measured by one’s ability to persevere through life's greatest challenges. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience and spirit.

She is survived by her children, Robyn Bautz-Ruffato, John (Heather) Renzi, Maria (Thomas) Tapia, and Jennifer (Gerald Preischel) Renzi; her grandchildren, Justen Valenti, Jillian (John) McPhail, Sydnie (Marisela) Tapia, Scott Phillips Jr., Bryce (Courtney) Phillips, Mallory Tapia, Kristen Ruffato, Dallas Renzi, Thomas Tapia Jr., and Drew Renzi; her great-granddaughter, Evelyn Phillips; and her sister, Annette “Net” (Bill) Neth. She was predeceased by her husband, James "Jim" E. Renzi, and her brothers, Gus and Howard Phillips.

Per Sandra's wishes, no services will be held at this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Newell Faulkner Unit 880 American Legion Auxiliary, 2912 Legion Drive, Eden, NY 14057.