Sandra Sue (Bentley) Pursel, 65, of Carmel, Ind., burst onto the scene August 18, 1943, in Evansville, Ind.

Her parents, Henry M. and Ruby L. Skelton Bentley preceded her in death.

Sandy graduated from [Bosse High School in 1961 and] the University of Evansville in 1964 and was a member of Chi Omega Sorority. She received her Master's Degree in Education from Butler University. Sandy was a 5th Grade Math and Science teacher at Central Elementary School in Pike Township for 37 years. She retired in 2001. Sandy took art classes at the Indianapolis Art Center; she also enjoyed cooking and was considered the best cook in the family!

Sandy is survived by her husband of 41 years, William G. "Bill" Pursel; sister, Diane C. Thweatt; brothers, David and Ronald Bentley; several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom she motivated and took a special interest in.

A memorial service will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 8, at Flanner and Buchanan Funeral Center in Carmel, Ind. Friends may call today, July 7, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Flanner and Buchanan.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Mental Health America of Hamilton County, 942 N. 10th Street Noblesville, IN 46060.

Jul 7th, 2009
I was so sad to hear of Sandy s untimely passing. I had to smile though when the obituary started out with she burst onto the scene... rather than she passed away... . How appropriate! That describes her spirit perfectly. She burst into every occasion and filled it with energy and laughter. She not only was a terrific teacher but a wonderful friend. Sandy was my son s teacher in 92- 93. Then I had the privilege of working with her when I returned to Central Elementary as a teacher’s assistant and then as the school secretary. That s when I really got to know her. She was a beautiful person who loved life and people, and everyone who knew Sandy will miss her. She was a special lady. Jane Bentley