Sandra Lee (Helm) Sebastian, beloved wife, daughter, aunt and incomparable friend, passed away peacefully in the company of her husband, Nick, and her caregiver, Kristen Rideout, at her home on Sunday, November 26, 2017.

Sandi was born on March 31, 1950 in Tuscola, IL to St. Clair (Roscoe) Helm, Jr. and Lois (Perry) Helm. She was a 1968 graduate of Tuscola High School, and a 1972 graduate of Southern Illinois University. She married Nicholas Charles Sebastian in 1984. He survives.

Other survivors include her brother: James Tipton (Peggy) Helm, a step-niece: Allie (Miceal) Rooney and a step-daughter: Olivia Scholes.
She was preceded in death by her parents and nephew: Christopher Helm.

Sandi enjoyed her career as a respiratory therapist, working first at Burnham Hospital in Champaign, IL and later at Jackson Hospital in Montgomery, AL. She was a dedicated professional who was committed to helping her patients regain full functionality, enabling them to live life to the fullest as she did herself.

Sandi developed many interests across her fascinating and varied life. Among her most enduring passions was her work in stained glass, a hobby she approached with the same precision and high standards that were her hallmark in all areas of her life. Her family is grateful for these reminders of her creativity that they will cherish forever. Sandi was a pet lover who was devoted and loving to the numerous shelter cats who found their way into her life. Sandi had a wonderful sense of humor that enabled her to see the irony of every situation, and to make a wry, witty, and accurate observation about it. She was a fun-loving person; there was always laughter in every group she was with.

The family will hold a private service. The family requests that memorials contributions be made to the Hand-4-Paws: P.O. Box 204 Tuscola, IL 61953

Hilligoss Shrader Funeral Home, Tuscola, IL is assisting the family with arrangements.

Online condolences maybe shared via hilligossshraderfh.com