Sandra Ann Sanroma

Sandra (Sandy) Ann Sanroma, 82, of Chester, VA, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2025. A beloved wife, mother, and grandmother- she was deeply grateful for the joys of motherhood and cherished her role as a loving, devoted grandmother. She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Ulises Sanroma; daughter, Cristina Albin; and grandson Shane Albin.

Though born in Wilmington, Delaware, to the late Harold and Virginia Preston, she spent many cherished summers in Chester, Virginia, at the home of her maternal grandmother, a place she always held dear to her heart.

Her journey led her to the University of Delaware, where she met her husband, Ulises. They traveled across the world, living in Spain for five years before settling in the Richmond, Virginia area. She continued her education and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology from Virginia Commonwealth University.

For five years, Sandra worked as a social worker at the Southside Virginia Training Center for the Mentally Handicapped. Her passion for helping others led her to spend 17 years working in the field of adoption at the Virginia Department of Social Services, where she made a lasting impact on many lives.

She had many hobbies, such as spending time with family and friends, swimming, reading, writing, watching Spanish speaking novels on television, and spending time with her husband in the city of Barcelona, Spain, where her husband grew up. She was also a member of the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Richmond, and the Daytimers, where she and her husband made many important, long-lasting friendships.

She was a passionate advocate for causes that supported marginalized people and animal rights. Though she was known for her generous financial support of various organizations, her dedication extended beyond donations.

In addition to her advocacy, she was also a writer. Her work, Antoni and Lola, though fictional, was inspired by the true story of her husband's parents during and after the Spanish Civil War of July 17, 1936 - April 1, 1939. Her writing was a testament to her creative spirit and her love of history, as well as her desire to preserve important family history.

Sandra's legacy is one of love, compassion, and dedication to making the world a better place. She touched the lives of many through her work, her advocacy, and her unwavering love for her family. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A memorial service will take place on Friday, March 21, 2025, at the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Richmond, at 1000 Blanton Ave, Richmond, VA 23221, at 2PM, with reception to follow.

The family is being served by the Chester Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son.