Sandra H. Ballew

Sandra Howe Ballew, a dedicated educator, devoted daughter and sister, and beloved aunt, passed away on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

Born on June 17, 1947, in Staunton, Virginia, Sandra was the eldest daughter of the late William H. (“Bill”) and Mary Ann Howe Ballew. From a young age, she embraced her role as the eldest sister to Patricia (“Patti”) and Cynthia (“Cindy”) with a blend of fierce protection and a lifelong supply of “unique wisdom.”

One of the early graduates of Riverheads High School, Sandra was a trailblazer from the start, becoming the first in her family to attend college. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from Madison College in 1969, setting a precedent her sisters would follow. She later received a Master of Arts in American Literature from James Madison University, reflecting her deep love of the written word.

Though she came of age in the 1960s, Sandra was never one for “flower power,” long hair, or public protest. Yet the core ideals of that era - standing up for equal rights and equal opportunity for all, especially for women - were deeply woven into her character. She lived those values through steady, everyday action.

Sandra dedicated forty years to education, beginning her career at Elkton High School before joining the newly opened Spotswood High School in 1980. Known affectionately as “Sandy” to her friends and colleagues, she served for many years as Chair of the English Department and was recognized with multiple Teacher of the Year honors. She had a rare gift for appreciating all aspects of literature, moving seamlessly from the complexities of Faulkner’s The Sound and the Fury to detailed conversations about the latest developments on General Hospital.

Beyond the classroom, Sandra was a quiet but determined advocate for women’s opportunities. As the Elkton High School and Spotswood High School cheerleading sponsor, she refused to see her team as secondary to Friday night football. Instead, she transformed the program into one defined by athleticism and excellence, entering competitions at the national level long before it became common practice. In doing so, she ensured her cheerleaders were recognized as the “Trailblazers” they were.

For someone as intelligent and curious as Sandra, it would have been natural for her to focus on individual achievements and things simply of interest to her. But this was not the case, as Sandra’s true North Star was her family. She was the steady hand and generous heart of the Ballew-Berry family. In addition to her longstanding tight-knit relationship with her sisters, she cherished her brothers-in-law, George Ronald (“Ronnie”) Earhart and Kevin Morrison Jarvis, and took great joy in supporting the generations that followed.

To her nieces and nephews - Amy, Katie, Todd, and Wes - she was a second mother. To their children, she was the third grandmother who spoiled them way too much - she was sometimes known as “Sandra Claus” due to her extraordinary generosity during the holidays. But it was not just about generosity and good times. Sandra was a source of strength for her sisters and family through life’s most difficult moments, including the recent losses of her nephew Todd Earhart and niece Katie Rawlings.

The family would also like to recognize Sandra’s long-time mentorship and friendship with Lori Meadows Grubb. It was a unique bond she cherished.

Sandra’s faith was deeply rooted in Mint Spring United Methodist Church, where her connection began in childhood - her father helped with the construction of the original sanctuary. She remained a lifelong and active member, serving in leadership roles on the Administrative Council and Board of Trustees.

She especially loved participating in church traditions and service projects. Most recently, the Helping Hands Food Pantry, and the Holly Jolly Shoppe, were particular favorites. She loved how these programs supported those in need, but she also treasured the friendship and fellowship in working with her fellow Mint Springers.

Sandra is survived by her sisters, Patti (Ronnie) Earhart and Cindy (Kevin) Jarvis; her niece Amy (Bill) Piner; her nephew Wes (Stephanie) Huffman; her nine great-nieces and nephews - who adored her: Abby (19) and Sarah (16) Piner, Will (18), Jay (16), and Grant (13) Rawlings, Eli (16) and Alex (12) Earhart, and Becca (8) and Maggie (3) Huffman.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her nephew, Todd (Trish) Earhart and niece, Katie (Mike) Rawlings.

Sandra’s life is a testament to the enduring impact of a teacher, a mentor, and a deeply devoted family member. She showed those around her that literature is everywhere, that girls belong to the center stage, and that family is life’s greatest legacy.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at Henry Funeral Home in Staunton.

A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Mint Spring United Methodist Church.

A private burial will be held at Thornrose Cemetery in Staunton.

Honorary pallbearers include Kathy Dunham, Becky Lam, Elaine Barr, Susan Doughty, Anne Perdue, and Martha Sparks.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Mint Spring United Methodist Church or Helping Hands Food Pantry (Mint Spring UMC, P.O. Box 14, Mint Sring, VA 24463).