Sarah Elizabeth Stillwell

Sarah Stillwell passed away Sunday, April 20, 2025, in Sacramento, California at 91 with her family by her side. She was born January 1, 1934, to John and Sarah Jacobson in rural Dickinson County, Kansas. She was raised in Kansas and graduated from Ozawkie High School. She married her high school sweetheart, Gary Stillwell, on February 27, 1956. The couple lived and raised their children in Topeka, Kansas, for many years before purchasing a family farm in Winchester, Kansas. In 1975, they relocated to Pleasanton, California, where they opened a retail furniture store in downtown Pleasanton, which they operated for 27 years.

In 2002, Sarah and Gary retired and moved to Ione, California, where they built their home forever. Sarah had many friends in the local community. She was a part time bookkeeper and an avid card player of Canasta, Bunko, and Mexican Train games every week with her friends. 

Sarah was the definition of a loving wife and homemaker. She was an amazing Nana to all of her grandchildren. She always carried herself with dignity, grace, and honesty. Sarah was a sweet soul who loved her family deeply and always had a kind word for others. Her warmth and laughter will be missed by all those who knew her.

Sarah is survived by her children Gregory Stillwell and wife Sandra, Sheri Cardadeiro and husband Nelson, and Jeffery Stillwell; her grandchildren Danielle, Brandon, Chantelle, Zachary, and Dustin; her great-grandchildren Cory, Sunnie, Saralynn, Anika, and Sadie; and her brother Ken (Jim) Jacobson. A loving extended family and friends also survive her.

She was preceded by her husband, Gary, in 2011, and her son, Gary Lee, in 2005. 

Services will be held for Sarah at Daneri Mortuary, 415 Broadway, Jackson, CA 95642, on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 11 am, followed by a graveside service at Sunset View Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the Spina Bifida Association at spinabifidaassociation.org or to the American Cancer Society at donate.cancer.org.