With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we share the news of the passing of Sandy Steers, the longtime Executive Director of Friends of Big Bear Valley, who died on the evening of February 11, 2026. For more than two decades, Sandy served as the guiding force behind the nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection and appreciation of wildlife in the Big Bear Valley region of Southern California.
Her unwavering commitment transformed the group into a respected advocate for environmental stewardship, with a special focus on the famous bald eagle pair Jackie and Shadow whose live-streamed nest has drawn millions of viewers worldwide. Under her leadership, Friends of Big Bear Valley grew into a vital community resource that educated residents and global audiences about conservation, habitat preservation, and the importance of protecting native species in the San Bernardino Mountains.
Sandy Steers brought extraordinary dedication to every aspect of her role, overseeing daily operations, coordinating volunteer efforts, managing public outreach, and maintaining the popular eagle cam that has become a worldwide phenomenon. She worked closely with biologists, forest service personnel, and community members to promote responsible viewing practices and habitat conservation strategies that benefited not only eagles but also other wildlife in the area.
Her passion extended to organizing educational programs, fundraising initiatives, and seasonal updates that kept supporters informed and engaged year-round. Through her leadership, the organization fostered a sense of shared responsibility for the natural environment, turning casual observers into active advocates for the fragile mountain ecosystem.
The circumstances surrounding Sandy Steers’s passing have not been publicly detailed beyond the announcement of her death on February 11, 2026, with Friends of Big Bear Valley requesting patience as the team processes this tremendous loss. No specific cause or additional information has been released, allowing the focus to remain on celebrating her profound contributions rather than the events of her final days.
In honoring her memory, the community recognizes a life well lived—one marked by selfless service, deep love for nature, and an ability to unite people around a common purpose. Sandy exemplified quiet leadership and genuine care, qualities that left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her or follow her work.
The Friends of Big Bear Valley team now faces the difficult task of carrying forward without their beloved leader, while the broader community of supporters reflects on the enormous void left by her absence. Future nest seasons, educational events, and conservation projects will proceed with her example in mind, serving as a living tribute to the passion and integrity she brought to every endeavor.
