Sandra Jean Barnes Pressley

Sandra Jean Barnes Pressley, age 78, passed away on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at Gordon Hospice House in Iredell County. She was born on Saturday, October 19, 1946, in Iredell County. Sandra was a devoted family member, a cherished friend, and a dedicated teacher assistant whose influence touched the lives of many. Sandra spent the majority of her working career serving as a teacher assistant at Sugar Loaf Elementary School, where she nurtured the minds and hearts of children, instilling in them a love for learning that would last a lifetime.

Danny, a loving and devoted husband for 58 years, met his beloved wife on a blind date. They took care of each other, with Danny spoiling her each day by bringing her a cup of coffee. Together, they built a beautiful home and shared a deep bond. He took excellent care of her and remains extremely proud of their family.

She filled her life with vibrant memories that included precious moments spent with her family and friends. She found immense joy in traveling with her grandchildren, creating adventures that they would hold dear forever. Her love for them was unmistakable, and her face would light up at the mention of their names.

Sandra's interests and hobbies were as vibrant as her spirit. She found profound joy in the simple pleasures of life: sitting on the beach with a good book, lingering in the Florida room at Jacksonville Beach, or delighting in the outdoors from the porch of her home. She loved seeing a beautiful cardinal, watching butterflies, and smelling the rose bush at her house. Sunday dinners were a cherished tradition, filling their home with laughter and stories that created lasting memories. Her culinary enthusiasm was evident in her love for planning menus, where lovingly crafted recipes came alive during gatherings with friends and family. Ever the captivating host, she also believed in the sweet element of indulgence, firmly advocating for the philosophy of eating dessert first. The holidays thrived in her presence, marked by evenings filled with laughter and games that brought everyone closer together.

A proud member of East Taylorsville Baptist Church, Sandra passionately embraced her faith, dedicating time to worship and praise God. Her unwavering faith and commitment to her beliefs inspired those around her as she volunteered over her lifetime at ETBC as pre-school director, a Care team member, a Good News Club volunteer, and a Celebrate Recovery leader.

Her dedicated caregivers and doctors at Duke and, most recently, Novant Forsyth brought her joy and friendship as she courageously fought cancer for 40 years. A true warrior, she embodied strength and resilience and was the strongest person and fighter that we knew. Cancer didn't define her; she was a sweet lady who inspired everyone around her to live life full of joy and kindness.

She leaves behind her beloved husband of 58 years, Danny Pressley; her loving children: Kendra Pressley (Mark Leininger) of Jacksonville, FL, Mark Pressley (Chrissy) of Hiddenite, and Curt Pressley of Taylorsville. Her grandchildren, Maegan Pressley, Koda Pressley, Lydia Pressley, Hunter Campbell all of Taylorsville, Ryan Leininger (Tim Korey) of St. Petersburg, FL, and Cole Leininger (Cameron) of Pleasant Hill, CA, along with her special grandchild Laken Powe of Hickory, were constant sources of pride and joy in her life. Sandra is also survived by her siblings, James Barnes (Linda) and Bonita Powe (Reggie) both of Taylorsville, and her cherished nieces, Gayle Carroll of Hopewell, VA and AnaBeth Powe of Hickory and her nephews, Barry Barnes of Elkin and Bryan Powe (Marquita) of Hickory along with their families. She was blessed to have wonderful sisters-in law and brothers-in-law and their families who blessed her tremendously and whom she cherished.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Willis and Kitty Sue Bumgarner Barnes; her stillborn brother, Curtis Barnes; and her brother Barry Barnes.

A visitation will be held Saturday, May 3, 2025, at East Taylorsville Baptist Church from 1:00 pm to 3:00pm. The memorial service will be Saturday, May 3, 2025, at East Taylorsville Baptist Church at 3:00 pm. A private inurnment for the family will follow in the Taylorsville City Cemetery. Rev. Kevin White will officiate.

The family will accept flowers, or donations can be made to Gordon Hospice House, 2341 Simonton Road, Statesville, NC 28625 at the following link: https://apps.hoic.org/donate-now

In remembering Sandra, we honor a life lived fully and freely, a life filled with devotion, laughter, and unyielding grace. Her spirit will forever resonate in the lives she touched, a beacon of love shining brightly as we carry forward her remarkable legacy.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com