Sandra Lou Carter

In His infinite wisdom, God foresaw an assignment which required the credentials only Sandra possessed. He was going to need a servant, one with the strength and courage of a warrior, the determination of a conqueror, and the compassion of a missionary, wrapped in His love, to share with all man kind. So, on January 16, 1954, Sandra graced the universe with her presence.

A memorial service will be conducted 2:00 P.M. Friday May 31, 2024 in Citty Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Ralph Clayton officiating. The family will see friends following the service in the funeral and at other times will be at the home of her sister Patsy Carter. 

Born to the late John D. and Pat McKinney Carter, Sandra was the first of 6 children.  Followed by David, who had one son Heath and Heath's Mother Carolyn whom she so admired (David preceded her in death), Patsy, her sister whom she cherished and brothers Jimmy and his wife Donna and their daughter Carly and Jerald who she loved immensely. They were triplets but sadly lost their sister Janet in infancy. She also was preceded in death by her son-in-law: Rick Ramey. Sandra spent her childhood on the farm enjoying riding horses and the best the country life had to offer.

Sandra graduated from Reidsville Senior High School in 1972.  After graduation, she enrolled in Rockingham Community College. Later, she decided to settle down and start a family. She married and from that union Ryan was born.  Sandra was a loving, protective and caring mother, who wanted nothing but the best for her daughter. In fact, years later she blessed Ryan with a beautiful bouncy baby sister, Olivia who became the topping on her cake. 

When Sandra entered the workforce, she gained experience in sales. She then moved into the medical field working in the office for Doctor Reynolds. At the age of 35, she decided to make a bold career change and stepped onto the campus of the Rockingham Opportunity Center. Little did she know, that wasn’t a career change; instead, she had embarked upon something much greater than anything she could have ever imagined. In fact, she shared that her life was forever changed. This was an appointment to fulfill her purpose, her assignment she did not take lightly. Sandra embraced her mission serving individuals with disabilities. This task was not easy and she assumed the responsibility for the livelihood of many. She was blessed and equipped with the tools necessary; thus, effortlessly accomplishing each challenge with excellence and grace. She became the voice of those who could not speak and the ears for those who could not hear.

Due to a speech impediment of one individual who could not pronounce her name, Sandra became affectionately known as “Wanna”.  Wanna was a strong advocate who could clearly see the hardships of those who were disabled and wanted nothing but the best for each and provide them with lots of opportunities. She took a group to White Lake to experience the water and amusement park. She helped organize the Ball (a dance) where those she served could experience dressing up and dancing. Wanna was one who saw the potential in others and nurtured it until they believed in themselves. Wanna was one who could turn obstacles into opportunities. Wanna could touch one’s life in despair and turn it around; One who could dance when there was no music; One who knew there was no door she could not open; One who could stand tall even if she stood alone; One whose hands could refurbish the old and make new; One who comforted and cared. 

After years of service, Sandra decided to return to the classroom and obtain her degree as a Licensed Practical Nurse. She left the Center and decided to serve in a different capacity, providing care to others. At the same time, her life was blessed as she was able to enjoy her legacy. She became a grandmother of 3 beautiful girls. Carter, Dorsey and Press. Her face glowed, eyes sparkled and chest swelled when she spoke of their goodness. Family was very important to Sandra and she loved all.

Sandra carried out her mission. She loved, she laughed and she cried. But most importantly, she shared it all with us. Sandra was a wonderful daughter, sister, niece, aunt, cousin, mother, grandmother, nurse, advocate, and friend. Her legacy will live on, and her presence will be with us always.

Memorials may be sent to: Ancora Compassionate Care (formerly Hospice of Rockingham County) P.O. Box 281 Wentworth, NC  27327. 

And for that we can look up, tilt our heads, smile and say “Well done Wanna, Well done.

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