Sandra Davis Obituary

Sandra Sue Barnes Davis, age 79, of New Bern, North Carolina, passed away on March 26, 2026, and entered into the loving presence of her Lord and Savior after a life marked by faith, devotion, and steadfast love for her family.

She was born on September 17, 1946, and from her earliest years she carried the gentle strength, kindness, and grace that would come to define her life. Sandra was a Christian woman whose faith was not simply spoken but lived out daily in the way she cared for others, served her church, and treasured every opportunity to bless those around her. She was loving, selfless, and faith-filled, and those qualities touched everyone who knew her.

Sandra was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Rob Roy Withey Jr., Michelle Burton and her husband Warren, and Kevin Ray Davis, all of New Bern; her grandchildren, Taylor Davis, Kelsey Withey, Samantha Burton, Nicholaas Burton, and Jonathan Burton and his wife Keri; and eight great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will forever hold her close in their hearts. She was preceded in death by her parents, Luther "Benny" Woodrow Barnes and Margaret Tatem Barnes, and by her brother, Gary Tatem Barnes.

Sandra was a huge family woman who loved her children and grandchildren deeply and cherished every moment she had with them. She was happiest when surrounded by the people she loved, and she made it her mission to be present, encouraging, and supportive in every season of their lives. She stood beside her family in their hopes and dreams, offering wisdom, comfort, and a steady hand. Her love extended beyond her immediate family, and she was often known as a second mother to her children's friends and to those who came to the area without family of their own. Her home and her heart were open, and many found in her a safe place of belonging.

Sandra also had a gift for hospitality that was expressed through her cooking and baking. She loved preparing meals for others and was especially known for her onion pie and banana pudding. She delighted in trying new recipes, particularly when there was a church potluck or a gathering where she could share something made with love. Her kitchen was a place of warmth and care, and the food she prepared became another way she showed her affection for those around her.

Her faith was central to who she was. Sandra was a devout Christian and an active member of Riverside United Methodist Church, where her family was known as original charter members. She loved the fellowship of the church and faithfully used her gifts to serve the Lord. Singing was one of her great joys, and she shared her voice in the choir in high school, with the Craven Community Chorus, and even in the "Messiah Concert" with the North Carolina Symphony. She understood that music could lift the spirit and glorify God, and she embraced that calling with gratitude and joy.

Christmas was Sandra's favorite season, and she loved every part of it. She enjoyed decorating the trees, listening to Christmas music, and watching Hallmark Christmas movies throughout the year. The beauty and hope of the season reflected something of her own heart, for she lived with a spirit that welcomed joy and shared it freely. She also recently began watching the "Joseph" series and loved seeing the Bible come to life on the screen, a reminder of how deeply she valued Scripture and the story of God's faithfulness.

Sandra's life was a testimony to the words of Scripture and to the truth that a faithful life leaves a lasting legacy. She gave of herself through her talents, her time, her prayers, and her love. She will be remembered as a woman who loved her family, loved the Lord, and used her gifts to bless others. As the Bible reminds us in 2 Timothy 4:7, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." Sandra's course was marked by grace, and her faith remained her anchor until the end.

Though her earthly journey has ended, the light of Sandra's life continues to shine in the hearts of those who loved her. Her family will remember her laughter, her cooking, her singing, her encouragement, and the gentle way she made others feel valued. Her church family will remember her devotion and service. Her friends will remember her kindness and her willingness to care. Above all, she will be remembered as a woman whose life pointed others toward the Lord she loved so dearly.

A Celebration of Sandra's Life will be held at a later date.