E. Sandidge, 80, school district sec'y

Evalyne P. Sandidge, a secretary for the School District of Philadelphia for nearly 30 years and an active member of a Christian Science Church, died Wednesday. She was 80 and lived in University City.

Evie, as she was called by family and friends, grew up in Wilmington, Del., where she received her early education.

She later moved to Brooklyn, N.Y., where she matriculated at Brooklyn College. It was in Brooklyn that she met and married Ernest Paul Sandidge on Aug. 26, 1949, and they moved to Philadelphia in 1950.

She went to work for the School District and became active in the First Church of Christ Scientist. She served in practically every position there, including Sunday School superintendent, usher, care-committee worker, lecture-committee member, reading-room librarian, board member, clerk of the church and reader for Sunday services.

Evie was a strong supporter of her husband's real-estate business. His success would not have been possible "had it not been for her steadfast sacrifice, dedication and care," her family said.

One of their children, Paula, was born with cerebral palsy and Evie dedicated herself to her care for 38 years before Paula's death.

"Evalyne maintained a wonderful, loving home," her family said. "She loved people and people loved her. She always took the time to be thoughtful, whether it was sending a fruit basket, flowers, a card, making a phone call or making a visit. She enjoyed spending time with friends and family, eating out, shopping and travel."

"She was a wonderful mother and wife," said her husband. "We had a beautiful marriage."

Besides her husband, she is survived by two daughters, Denise Spaulding and Adrienne Hill; two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Services: 11 a.m. tomorrow at Mount Carmel Baptist Church, 5732 Race St. Friends may call at 9 a.m. Burial will be in Eden Cemetery, Collingdale. *