Sandra Melvin Artis

Our community sadly lost a pillar on February 10, 2021, as Mrs. Sandra Melvin Artis peacefully entered into eternal rest.  She was born on February 4, 1945, in Newport News, Virginia, to the late George and Virginia Melvin.

Sandra was educated in the public school system of Newport News and proudly graduated in the Huntington High School class of 1963.  Sandra began her career in food service and later retired from Newport News Public Schools in 2006.

Sandra was an avid bowler for many years and after retirement, she enjoyed crocheting and affectionately made a blanket for each child born into the family.  Sandra lovingly served many years as teen mom for her granddaughter Tishawna’s cheerleading squad, the Hampton Tornados.  She also enjoyed making her infamous potato salad during holidays that was enjoyed by all. Sandra confessed her love for Christ at an early age and was baptized at Union Baptist Church, Newport News. She remained a dedicated member of Union Baptist Church for over 50 years, where she faithfully served as a member of the Second Senior Choir and the Mass Choir.

We will forever salute Sandra.  She has always been there to support and guide her family though life.  God gave us the best mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend in the world.  Her presence in the life of her family and friends was simply a gift. She was so caring and giving and represented the epitome of unconditional, eternal love. Sandra celebrated everyone and never met a stranger! When she looked at a person, she never saw their flaws or imperfections, but rather saw the unique qualities and beauty that God bestowed upon them.  She was so kind and loving that you could actually feel her love as soon as you were in her presence. She cried with you, laughed with you and felt your loses as if they were her own. She was so gracious and never imposed her will on anyone. Sandra had a very strong influence on the lives of her friends and relentlessly gave unlimited support, guidance and encouragement. She had a tremendous impact on her family and created special bonds, made many sacrifices, and helped to shape the lives of each child born into the family. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 52 years, Curtis L. Artis, Sr., her son Curtis Griffin, granddaughter, Lakeia Griffin and sister-in-law Mary Walloe.

Sandra leaves behind such a rich legacy. She leaves to cherish her memories two daughters, Carleen Artis Edwards and Terry Griffin; one son, Curtis Artis, Jr.; her grandchildren Willie Marc Edwards Jr., Carlin Edwards (Kimesha), Jonathan Griffin (Natayah), Tishawna Artis, Caaliyah Artis, and Deonta Griffin; twelve great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; two brothers Tyrone Melvin (Polly), James Melvin (Deborah); four sisters, Gloria Melvin Cox; Elmira Melvin Pitchford, Gwendolyn Melvin Banks (Kenneth), Joyce Melvin-Jones (Carter).

She is also survived by one brother-in-law, Ivory (Chris) Artis; five sisters-in-law, Shirley Artis-Moore (Larry), L. Levern Hicks (Matthew), Paulette Williams (Charlie), Lillie Tennessee (Vann), and Linda Edmonds (James); her special niece and goddaughter, Terri McAdams Keesee; her special niece, Pamela Cox, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and lifelong friends.

The cruel hand of death snatched Sandra away from us and we will miss her forever.  We thank God for her and cherish all of the memories that were made. She was a precious gift from God, one of the best gifts ever and she touched so many hearts in so many ways. For that, we will always be thankful!

A public viewing will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Monday, February 15, 2021 at Nickelson-Cummings Funeral Home, 4304 Victoria Blvd, Hampton, VA. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private memorial service will be held for immediate family only. The memorial service will be live streamed via Twitter or Periscope at @union361.