Sandra McMahan Gibbs

Sandra McMahan Gibbs, age 75, of Burnsville, passed away after an extended illness on Monday, January 26th, 2026. She was one of five children of the late Vincent and Ruby Silver McMahan who were raised in the Low Gap Community of Yancey County.

Sandra was a 1968 graduate of East Yancey High School. She began her career as a book keeper at the old Burnsville Hospital where she remained for almost three years until taking a position with the Yancey County Board of Education, taking care of their books and accounting for almost five years. From there, Sandra worked many years with M & H Chevrolet until she retired. She took pride in her work and was a valued employee. Second to her career, Sandra was an exceptional homemaker but her greatest joy in life was raising her son David.

Sandra was a faithful member of Higgins Methodist Church, where she worked alongside her friend Louise McClure in the nursery for many years. She was beloved by everyone who crossed her path and was always a ray of sunshine in their lives. In her spare time, Sandra had a very artistic ability and had an eye for beautiful home décor. She was also an avid reader and gardener. Her roses were always what set her garden apart from everyone's. Sandra will forever be remembered as a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend to those who she cherished most in life.

She leaves a lifetime of love and cherished memories with her husband, Gary Gibbs; her son, David Higgins (Amber) of Burnsville; grandchildren: Trevor Higgins (Kate) and Lynnsey Higgins all of Burnsville; great-granddaughters: Shelby and Millie Higgins; siblings: Shirley Bailey (Richard) of Micaville, Vincent McMahan (Michele) of Andersonville, TN, Terri Robinson (Gary) of Fletcher and Glenn McMahan (Rhonda) of Burnsville. Several nieces, nephews and extended family members also survive.

A private service to celebrate Sandra's life will be held at Yancey Funeral Services. Burial will be in the McCracken Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Samaritan's Purse, at www.samaritanspurse.org.