Sandy Cookston-Smith

Sandy Cookston Smith left us the evening of Friday, July 15th and is survived by her husband Shad, her adoring family Jessica, Katti, Tony Lezlee, Sam, Kenzie, and Sadie, her many lifelong friends, and her kitty who was named after her favorite Aunt Ruby. She joins her sister Vickie, parents, and many others in peace now in heaven. She was an incredible and talented artist, chef, green thumb and animal lover, who knew how to light up a room with laughter as well as she could flip someone shit. She always had on hand one or more gigantic dogs with wet beards, gardening gear, and (somehow) a gourmet dish she just finished cooking. She had a great laugh, a gorgeous smile, and smoked menthol Benson & Hedges 100's between sips of her oversized iced tea (never sweetened) and drops of Binaca (way long after they stopped manufacturing it).She always smelled amazingly good.…like fresh cut flowers, herbs, and ridiculously expensive perfume. She also always looked like a million bucks. She had impeccable style that was Bohemian, classy, and vibrant. Here are some Sandy life lessons: Cook as much like Julia Child and Jacques Pepin as possible. Cherish all big dogs and ugly cats. A white T-shirt can be elegant. Good hair doesn't come cheap. Always feel comfortable ordering the most expensive thing on the menu (she told me that at 7 and I ordered lobster that day). There is nothing better than summer ripe tomatoes and fresh basil from your own garden. Buy old stone houses with overgrown yards. Befriend your oldest neighbor…preferably a little old man named Marcel. Love art and consume it often. Be loyal. Flirt with children. Love Kansas City. We all love and miss you dearly.