Sandra Wheeler Ridings

Sandra Wheeler “Sandy” Ridings of Woodruff, SC passed away on Sunday, June 28, 2026 at the age of 78. She was born in Spartanburg, SC on September 8, 1947 to the late Lillian Varner and William Luke Wheeler.

A graduate of Spartanburg High School, Sandy dedicated her life to learning and serving others. Her passion for education never faded, and in 2014 she proudly earned her master’s degree in education from Ashford University, demonstrating that it is never too late to pursue one's goals. For 38 years, Sandy was an owner and operator of Learning Years Child Development Center, where she faithfully cared for and educated generations of children.

Sandy was a devoted Christian and a faithful member of Church at The Mill. Her faith guided the way she lived each day, reflected in her generous heart, compassionate spirit, and genuine love for others. She found joy in life's simple blessings and was gifted with many creative talents. Sandy loved painting, knitting, cross-stitching, cooking, gardening, and surrounding herself with beautiful flowers. She also enjoyed games and puzzles, always welcoming opportunities to laugh and spend time with those she loved.

Above all else, Sandy treasured her family. Nothing brought her more joy than spending time with her grandchildren, creating memories they will cherish forever. Sandy will be remembered for her generosity, kindness, gentle nature, and the love she freely shared with everyone she met. Her legacy lives on in the children she nurtured, the family she adored, the friends she cherished, and the unwavering faith that guided her life.

Sandy is survived by Terry D. Ridings; her children, Jeremy Ridings (Jessica), Shane Ridings, and Dean Ridings; grandchildren, Ethan Ridings, Braxton Ridings, John Ridings, Kate Ridings, and Natalie Beauvais; nieces she loved as sisters, Karen Blikle (Bobby), Nancy Boyd, and Patsy Austin; and nephews, Steve Sexton and Frank Sexton. Along with her parents, she was predeceased by her sisters, Edith Leslie and Sara Sexton; and nieces, Cheryl Keith and Pam Shirley.

The family would like to say a special thank you to her caregiver and friend, Sandra Ridings, and the staff with Family Hospice of Greenville for their loving care of Sandy.

Visitation will be 1:00-2:15PM on Monday, July 6, 2026 in J. M. Dunbar Funeral Home, 690 Southport Road, Roebuck, SC 29376. Funeral services will follow at 2:30PM, conducted by Rev. Larry Lawson. Burial will be private.

In memory of Sandy, contributions may be made to Alzheimer's Association , www.alz.org