Sandra M. Ray-Bannon, 82, passed away on June 5, 2024 in her childhood home on Nelson Drive with her spouse, daughter, and sister by her side.  Sandra was born to Marion Alexander Ray and Beatrice Jane (Frier) Ray, in Hinton, West Virginia on November 23, 1941.

Sandra was a graduate of Newport News High School (1961). She lived in Richmond and worked for Children, Inc. before returning to Newport News to care for her parents. She worked for Powers Business Machines for several years as a coordinator of technicians. Sandra expressed her unconditional love for others with acts of kindness. She loved creating cards and posts with beautiful pictures, quotes, and messages. Facebook was her lifeline for keeping in touch with family and friends. Sandra exhibited tremendous fortitude as she endured loss and pain. Her courage was an example for others. Her genuinely loving spirit will be missed greatly.

Sandra is preceded in death by her parents; brother, Wilbur G. (Jerry) Ray; and grandsons, Charles David Wood and Brian Nicholas Wood. Sandra is survived by her spouse of 32 years, Michele Ray-Bannon; daughter, Tiffany M. Wood; sister, Angela Ray Smith (Glen Davenport); niece, Chelsey Smith Green; great-nephew, Joshua Kraig Green; nephew, Jeremy Lewis Alexander Smith (Jamie Chadwick); great-niece, Savannah Chadwick Smith; great-nephew, Shiloh Pressley Smith; brother-in-law, Michael Bannon (Tammy Watson); great-grandson, Heyden G. Gregory; and great-great-grandson, Lucas Gregory.

The family wishes to acknowledge the Affinity Hospice Care staff and the many professionals and friends who have provided Sandra with loving care.

A Celebration of Sandra’s Life will be held on Thursday, June 20^th, 2024, in the Fellowship Hall of Asbury Wesleyan Church, 605 Harpersville Road, Newport News, VA 23601.

The Reverend Deedra Chambers, Chaplain with Affinity Care, will officiate a memorial service at 5:30 pm, with a reception immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Southeastern Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association at https://www.tmcfunding.com/funds/in-loving-memory-of-sandra-ray-bannon/10455/

The Cremation Society of Virginia is handling arrangements.
Tammy Watson at Pollard’s Florist (757-595-7661) is assisting with Celebration of Life.

Online condolences may be expressed to www.vacremationsociety.com.
The family requests that contact information be provided with condolences.