Sandra Warmack Gallman

September 8, 1940 – June 21, 2025

Sandra Warmack Gallman, 84, of Atlanta, Georgia, passed away peacefully on June 21, 2025. Known for her quiet strength, dry wit, and unwavering loyalty, Sandra lived a life marked by love, determination, and grace.

Born and raised in Varnell, Georgia, Sandra graduated as valedictorian of her high school class. Shortly after, she moved to Atlanta — the city she would grow to love deeply — where she built a life of purpose, perseverance, and quiet achievement. There she married Jimmy Gallman, and together they had a daughter, Lisa. After their divorce, Sandra became a single mother, raising her daughter with determination, warmth, and steady resolve.

In the early 1990s, Sandra met Ed Shepard, her soulmate and loving partner. Together, they shared a joyful and devoted relationship that lasted until Ed’s passing. Sandra and Ed embraced life fully, celebrating every moment they could — with laughter, love, and a deep appreciation for simply being together.

Sandra enjoyed a long and respected career in the insurance industry, specializing in Wetland and Marine insurance. She earned the prestigious CPCU designation — Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter — a testament to her professionalism, knowledge, and dedication. She was widely admired by colleagues for her intelligence and integrity.

Her grandson, Zachary Griffin, was her pride and joy — she referred to him as her “Sunshine” — and she cherished every moment spent with him. She volunteered at every school Zach attended, whether by working in the front office, baking the best cupcakes, or altering marching band uniforms with care. She became a beloved presence in the school community — known to many simply as “Zach’s Grandma.”

Sandra loved a party and attended every one she could — not for the spotlight, but to support others. More often than not, she could be found in the background bringing in something wonderful that she had baked, organizing, taking photos, or holding Boo, her spoiled rotten grand-dog. She never wanted attention — just to make things better for those around her.

She only won two trophies in her life: one for being high school valedictorian, and the other for a margarita drinking contest — and she was probably just as proud of both. Sandra was one smart cookie who knew how to enjoy life. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures: cheering on the Braves and Falcons (unless they were playing Peyton Manning), baking with unmatched skill, sewing with care, celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, singing along at Jimmy Buffett concerts, and just being with family and friends.

For the last eight years of her life, Sandra bravely faced the challenges of Parkinson’s disease. Though it gradually took her independence, it never touched her humor or her will. Sandra was a fighter through and through — and “she did not go gentle into that good night — and we wouldn’t have expected her to.”

She will be remembered for her stubborn determination, dry humor, deep compassion, and a life lived with fully.

Sandra is survived by her daughter, Lisa Griffin, and her grandson, Zachary Griffin.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sandra’s memory to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, honoring her strength, perseverance, and enduring legacy.