Sandy Jean Byington

Sandy Jean Byington, 81, of Big Creek, Idaho, passed away on March 13, 2026. Born on July 21, 1944, in Park Rapids, Minnesota, to Ervin and Velva Goldsmith, she moved with her family to Kellogg in 1949. She grew up in the Kellogg area, where she met and married Don Byington.

Sandy was a familiar and well-liked presence throughout the Silver Valley. Over the years she worked at DB’s Café, Sunnyside Drug, and the Sunshine Mine, forming many lasting friendships in the community she called home.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Don; their two daughters, Penny Johnson (Ken) of Rathdrum and Lori Clark (Mike) of Sagle; five grandchildren, Amanda Chapman, Brian Hamilton, Corri Laine, Dana Phillips, and Kayci Johnson; ten great-grandchildren, Maddi, Gracie, Aylin, Lily, Molly, Phoenix, Vienna, Eisley, Reighan, and Linden; and one great-great-granddaughter, Aspen. She is also survived by her sister, Pat Wolfe; brothers Tom Goldsmith (Carol) and Jack Goldsmith (Laurie); and sister-in-law Carol Goldsmith (Bob). She was preceded in death by her brother Bob Goldsmith.

Sandy was deeply loved by her family, who will miss her terribly.