Sandra Palma Bortree passed from this life on December 15, 2023 after a courageous battle with cancer. Sandra was born to Edward and Ophelia “Dickie” Palma on September 16, 1947 in Laredo, Texas. In 1998, she married Paul Bortree. They have lived in Northern Virginia, North Carolina and most recently in Kerrville, Texas. She is survived by her husband Paul and sister Georgianne Kyle.
Sandra spent more than 50 years working in the banking and mortgage industry. Sandra attempted to retire upon moving to the Texas hill country in 2016. However, within months of moving she realized she missed her work and went back to the mortgage industry as a processor working remotely.
Throughout her professional life, she has been active in all local Chambers of Commerce where she resided. In North Carolina, she was also very active with Habitat for Humanity and served as chairperson for the Iredell County chapter. Additionally, she has always supported veterans organizations with emphasis on Purple Heart Homes in Statesville NC.
Sandra brought an intense focus and passion to everything she did. She loved scuba diving, baking, and working in her gardens. She shared her baked goods, recipes, and garden produce far and wide with everyone she encountered and fostered a community through those actions.
She also loved live music – especially local singer/songwriters - and could often be found at local venues and wineries. She shared a calendar she maintained with family and friends and befriended both musicians and fans at performances.
A Celebration of Life will be 1pm, Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024 with family, friends and some of her favorite musicians at Sandra and Paul's home in Kerrville. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to a local veterans charity or Purple Heart Homes in Sandra's memory.
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