Brian “Sandman” E. Sands

BRIAN “SANDMAN” E. SANDS, 60, of Mingo Junction, OH, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 9, 2026 at the Mary Jane Brooks Valley Hospice Care Center North, Steubenville, OH. Brian was born on July 6, 1965, Follansbee, WV. He was the son of the late James Sands and Dorothy (Swiger) Sands. Brian worked for many years at Don’s Gas Station in Steubenville, Ohio, where he proudly earned the nickname “Mayor of Steubenville.” He seemed to know everyone who walked through the doors, and if he didn’t, he made sure to before they left. Brian truly loved his job—not just the work itself, but the people. He enjoyed helping customers, sharing stories, offering a laugh, and brightening someone’s day. He never met a stranger, only friends he had yet to get to know. After his time at Don’s, Brian continued serving the community by working in security at Weirton Medical Center and later at PAM Health. In these roles, he provided not only safety and protection but also comfort and reassurance. His friendly smile and caring presence made a difference to patients, visitors, and staff alike. Brian was an avid football fan and rarely missed a game. He passionately cheered on his beloved Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Game days were special to him, filled with excitement, loyalty, and plenty of spirited commentary. He loved cutting grass and took pride in keeping things neat and tidy. He also enjoyed going to concerts, especially seeing his favorite 80s bands, where he could relax, sing along, and relive some of his favorite memories. Brian’s kindness, humor, and genuine love for people left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. He brought people together and made his community stronger simply by being himself. He will be deeply missed, and the void his passing leaves in our community will not easily be filled. In addition to his parents, Brian was preceded in death by his brother, Charles “Chuckie” Sands. Brian is survived by his wife of 20 years, Laurie (Bell) Sands; five children: Brittany Sands and her companion Phillip Pederson of Follansbee, WV, Bryan Patrick Sands and his wife, Miranda of Smithfield, OH, Maura Carducci and her husband, Michael of Wintersville, OH, Ashton Sands of Mingo Junction, OH and Aiden Stoll of Imperial, PA; seven grandchildren: Lucas, Junior, Whitley and Wylder Sands and Sophia, Amelia and Reid Carducci; six siblings: Debbie Sands, Sharon Ford, Rhonda Shaffer, Jimmy Sands, Joey Huff and Diane Sands; and numerous nieces and nephews. Family and friends were received on Sunday, February 15, 2025 until the time of the funeral service, at James Funeral Home, Follansbee with Valley Hospice Chaplain, George Romage officiating. Condolences, photos and stories may be viewed or added at www.chambersandjames.com.