Sandra Lynn Ellis Fishow, 70 years old, a beacon of love and generosity, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on December 30, 2025. Sandra was born on October 4, 1955, in Stanly County, to the late Thomas and Myrtle Little Ellis. Sandra's life was a testament to the power of kindness and the strength of family bonds.
Sandra's journey began as the cherished daughter of her late parents, and she grew up alongside her sisters, Phenie and Thelma. Her sister Thelma Jernigan predeceased her, leaving a legacy of memories to cherish. Sandra's spirit of love continued to flourish as she built her own family, marrying her beloved husband, Thomas "Thom" Fishow, with whom she shared thirty years of unwavering partnership and mutual adoration.
A devoted mother, Sandra's heart was always with her children, Suzanne Simons and her husband Mike, Ashley Hayes and her husband Taylor, and Matt Fishow. Her role as a grandmother was one she embraced with every ounce of her being, showering Caleb Hayes and his wife Ashley, Austin Hayes, Nola Simons, Liam Simons, Belle Hayes, Cohen Simons, and Clara Hayes with affection and wisdom. Her sister Phenie Bowen, along with her husband Charlie, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends, will forever hold Sandra's memory in the highest regard.
Professionally, Sandra retired as the Office Manager of Richland Creek Community Church in Wake Forest, where she was not only a dedicated employee but also a pillar of the community. Her work was a reflection of her character-organized, compassionate, and always with a readiness to lend a hand.
Sandra's interests were as rich and varied as her personality. She had an unwavering love for her family, which was the cornerstone of who she was. She loved all things British and anything historical. But most of all she loved the simple things like taking care of the home and yard and enjoying the outdoors. She took great joy in studying the Bible but also got pleasure by escaping into the many and varied novels she read. She was always happy to help others, learning about their life and family, and genuinely caring about their wellbeing.
Those who knew Sandra will remember her as loving, fierce, and selfless. She was generous with her time and other resources. Her mere presence brought comfort and joy to friends and strangers, alike. Sandra's legacy is one of unconditional love and selfless acts, a legacy that will continue to live on through the lives she touched. Her spirit, a blend of strength and tenderness, will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
A funeral service will be held 12:30pm Monday, January 5, 2026, at Richland Creek Community Church, 3229 Burlington Mills Rd,
Wake Forest, NC 27587. Rev John Wright will officiate. A private burial will be held at Pine Forest Memorial Gardens in Wake Forest.
A service by Bright Funeral Home and Cremation Center, Wake Forest.
www.brightfunerals.com (919-556-5811)