Sondra Faye McGann, born April 25th, 1940, to Faye and Thurman Montgomery of Hurricane, MS, passed away on February 22nd at the age of 83. Sondra epitomized strength and love throughout her life and was unwavering in her dedication to her family and friends.

A graduate of The University of Mississippi, Sondra devoted her working years to helping others through the Social Security Department. She retired early to care for her mother, demonstrating the selflessness and compassion that defined her character. Sondra’s intelligence and inquisitiveness fueled her passion for reading. She was well known in local libraries and quickly endeared herself to everyone she met. 

Sondra’s resilience and determination were nowhere more evident than in her years as a single mother raising her two sons, Mac and Michael. The stubbornness between these three is matched only by the love they shared. They laughed and argued and lived boldly, growing into an inseparable and formidable family. Sondra played an active role in the lives of her grandchildren which is evident in the many traits she passed on to them all. 

Sondra is survived by her sons Mac McGann (Carla) and Michael McGann (Rebecca) both of Chattanooga, TN; her brother, Tranny Montgomery (Zelda) of Hurricane, MS; her grandchildren Alexis Reed (Aaron), Tiffany Garcia (Austin), Natalie McGann, Stowe McGann, and Giulietta Murphy; and many beloved extended family in Hurricane and beyond. 

Visitation will be held at Browning Funeral Home, Tuesday, February 27, 2024, from 5 to 7 PM, followed by a service and burial at Sand Spring Church, officiated by Rev. Troy Montgomery, Wednesday, February 28, 2024 at 10 AM, where she will join the family that has preceded her. Sondra will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were touched by her remarkable character. She leaves behind a legacy of spiritedness, curiosity, willful determination, laughter, and love. 

Donations can be made in her honor to the libraries where she is still remembered, either directly or through her family: 

Soddy-Daisy Community Library (9619 Dayton Pike Suite C, Soddy-Daisy TN 37379) 

Clyde W. Roddy Library (371 1st Ave, Dayton TN 37321)

Sondra was a voracious reader and a ball of energy. Every time she came into our library, she brought bakery items to our volunteers and checked out book after book. She seemed to love everyone she met and brought a smile to everyone she encountered.  Sondra shared her literary enthusiasm with all. But most importantly, she made everyone feel special and important.

When Sondra fell, her presence was sorely missed. We would visit her in the rehab center and share stories. She would tell us about growing up and share stories of her past childhood memories and the love she had for family, friends, and literature. 

Ukelear Fusion, our performance ukulele group, stopped by and serenaded her during her recovery.

Sondra will be missed by everyone here at the Soddy-Daisy Community Library.

- Curtis Cecil, President KELCURT Foundation

We are dedicated to preserving the memory and legacy of Sondra McGann.  Although it will take about three years to complete, we are currently building an educational memorial pollination garden beside our new community garden.  We will be creating a plaque in her honor in our daylily section, as those were her favorite flowers.