Sandra Irene Tulip, 84, of the Town of Niagara, NY, passed away peacefully at her residence while under the care of Niagara Hospice, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, she was the daughter of the late Anna Mae (Faegen) and Pasquale J. Zabaldo.

Sandra was a graduate of Niagara Falls High School. On August 8, 1970, she married the love of her life, George Rix Tulip, who predeceased her. Sandra dedicated much of her life to serving her community and building meaningful relationships. She was employed as a waitress and bartender at the JetPort Restaurant in the Town of Niagara for 17 years. In 1994, she fulfilled her entrepreneurial dream by opening The Playground, a popular bar and restaurant in the Town of Niagara that she proudly owned and operated until 2008.

Following that chapter of her life, Sandra found another calling at Niagara-Wheatfield High School, where she worked as a hall monitor and lunchroom aide for 15 years until her retirement in 2021. Known and beloved throughout the Niagara-Wheatfield community, Sandra devoted 34 years to the NWAA Cheerleading program as a coach and coordinator. Generations of students knew her affectionately as “Grammy,” a reflection of the love, encouragement, and guidance she shared with countless young people. Her influence extended far beyond the classroom and athletic fields, leaving a lasting impression on the lives of many students and cheerleaders whom she came to love as her own. Sandra also faithfully served as the longtime Treasurer of the Buff Social Club.

Sandra enjoyed bowling, preparing holiday meals for family gatherings, and listening to classic country music. Above all, she cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was known for speaking her mind without hesitation, but her kind heart, infectious personality, and unwavering devotion to those she loved brightened every room she entered. Her warmth, humor, and generosity touched all who knew her, and her legacy will continue in the lives she influenced throughout her years.

She is survived by her beloved daughters, Dana M. DiRamio and Tabatha L. Tulip-Bondi (Christopher Bondi); her cherished grandchildren, Krystina (Ryan) Digati, Ashley DiRamio, George (Sami) DiRamio, Anthony (Amanda Tesmer) D'Aloise, and Kacie D'Aloise; her treasured great-grandchildren, Joseph (Bella), William, Ré-Solace, Penelope, Serenity, Sianna, Bentley, and Brayden; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. In addition to her husband, George, Sandra was predeceased by her beloved daughter, Suzette Tulip (John D’Aloise); and her sisters, Gloria (late Leo) Adamus, Patti (Manny) Fornoth, and Mary Jane (late CiCi) Kelly.

Visitation will be held on Monday, November 2, from 2 to 5 PM at M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304, where funeral services will be celebrated at 5 PM. If desired, memorial offerings may be made in Sandra's memory to Niagara Hospice, 4675 Sunset Drive, Lockport, NY 14094. Online condolences may be shared at www.mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com.