Sandra L. Kornegay-McGowan

Sandra lee Kornegay-McGowan, 76, passed peacefully an\ went on to be with her Lord and Savior on July 1, 2026. Born to the late Raymond Lee and Wilma Sherry Kornegay on May 2, 1950, Sandra was raised with unconditional love and affectionately called "Sandi" or "Sandpaper" by those closest to her. Her greatest pride came from raising two children who inherited her compassionate spirit and determination.

Sandra attended Mount Zion A.M.E. Methodist Church in Little Rocky Hill, New Jersey as a child. She later joined Macedonia Baptist Church in Trenton, New Jersey where she was a devoted member of the Morning Star Choir and usher board for many years.

Sandra loved her community and served it well as a proud member of the Pride of Trenton Temple # 774, a historical and active subordinate temple of the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World {IB.P.O.E.W.) She faithfully served in numerous leadership roles throughout her life. Within the Order, she held the distinguished titles of Past Grand Daughter Ruler and Assistant Daughter Ruler, and also served the Trinity Council as Assistant Vice Daughter Ruler. Her dedication to service extended into the veteran community as an active member of VFW Auxiliary Post #3525, where she proudly served as Past District President of District 18. Through her leadership, commitment, and unwavering spirit of service, she touched the lives of many and left an indelible legacy.

Sandra retired from Bristol Myers Squibb on February 1, 2014, after more than 40 years of dedicated service. Throughout her distinguished career, she held a variety of positions, culminating in her role as Senior Supervisor of Regulatory Operations. Her professionalism, leadership, and unwavering commitment earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues and left a lasting impact on the organization.

Before her professional career, Sandra attended South Brunswick Public Schools, where she excelled both academically and athletically. A gifted athlete, she enjoyed cheerleading and competing in softball, basketball, and track and field. Her team spirit, determination, and love for sports were evident from an early age and remained a part of the vibrant person she became.

Sandra was predeceased by her parents, Raymond and Wilma Kornegay; her husband, George Lewis McGowan Ill.

Sandra's memory will be cherished and forever remembered by a host of family members and friends, especially her Aunt Barbara Morrison. She leaves to mourn her children and grandchildren: Cassandra Johnson {Charles) and Howard D. Hayes Jr. (Diana); siblings: Deborah Kornegay-Briggs, Harry E. Thompson Jr. (Diane), Charles W. Thompson (Jackie) and Sheila E. Ortiz; grandchildren: Terrance M. Hayes-Privett, Dasirr B. Hayes, 5ynai A. Hayes, Kristion D. Hayes, Sa-Mya Belle Toussaint and nine bonus grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Funeral service will be 10am Friday, July 10, 2026 at Macedonia Baptist Church, 1300 Greenwood Ave., Trenton, NJ. Calling hours will be 8am until the time of service at the church.  Interment will be at Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery, Arneytown, NJ.

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