Sandra Snowden Richardson, age 68, was born January 28, 1953, to the late Rev. Jesse L. Snowden and Birdie Louise Clark Snowden in Fort Worth, Texas. She passed away peacefully while in hospice care on September 11, 2021 in Arlington, Texas.
Sandra was raised in Arlington and excelled in academics and music beginning formal piano training at age 5. She became the church pianist at age 11 and began teaching private piano lessons at age 16. A proud graduate of Sam Houston High School, she continued her education, graduating from Texas Wesleyan University with BAs in Music Education and Vocal Performance, plus a minor in piano. Honors included Phi Beta Kappa, Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities, and Outstanding Young Vocal Artist of Fort Worth.
While pursuing Master’s classes in Vocal Performance at the University of North Texas, Sandra was employed in the AISD as the Choral Director at Hutcheson Junior High. Popular with both students and faculty, she was selected as Outstanding Teacher of the Year.
Sandra accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior at a young age. Sandra was called to serve in Music Ministry in several local churches, first at Fielder Church, followed by Harmony Baptist Church, and finally at Lake Church. Sandra was proud to be an American and is still remembered for the patriotic productions she directed and produced while serving at all three churches. On the first anniversary of 9/11, she directed a five-church choir in memory of all who lost their lives on that day while recognizing policemen, firemen and other first responders who selflessly serve our community.
Sandra’s professional journey took her to Guidestone Financial Services, working in Retirement Administration and to serve pastors and church staffs. After her husband, Monte’s, career took him to Marietta, GA, she found employment with Lockheed Martin Aeronautics in Support Services Administration.
Sandra will be remembered for her love of people and authentic interest in each and everyone who crossed her path. She loved to laugh and make people laugh. In spite of declining health and the physical suffering she experienced the last five years of her life, she remained positive, thanking God each day for her many blessings. She greeted Monte each morning with a smile and the phrase, “We’re going to have a good day!” And they did.
In addition to her parents, Sandra is preceded in death by her sister, Cathy Snowden Gilpin. She is survived by her husband, best friend and soulmate, Monte Richardson; nephew, Brady Snowden whom she proudly called “Son”; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins whom she loved unconditionally.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 18, 10AM at Fielder Church, 2011 S Fielder Rd, Arlington, TX. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mission Arlington.
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