Affectionately known as Sandy, she passed away on May 8, 2026, at the age of 76. A lifelong resident of the Gaston County area, Sandy was a proud graduate and salutatorian of the Stanley High School Class of 1968.
Sandy was the heart of her family, celebrating 55 years of marriage with her husband, Dan. She committed most of her career to Saunders Thread Co. and was a long-time member of First ARP of Gastonia. Sandy enjoyed sharing her gift of music by playing piano for school events and homeless missions, as well as playing handbells at church. Outside of work, she was happiest when surrounded by family—whether she was vacationing at Sunset Beach, doting on her beloved dogs, or playing a game of cards with her sisters.
Sandy is survived by her husband of 55 years, Dan Rankin; her son, Brian Rankin and wife Amanda; and her daughter, Kristy Rankin Painter and husband Chris. She was a proud grandmother to Reagan Painter and fiancé Ian Hull, Donovan Painter, and Titus Rankin. She is also survived by her siblings: sisters Becky McMahan, Sue Pruett, and Kathy Shockley, and her brother, David Lewis.
A celebration of life service will be held at 1:30 pm on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at First ARP Church of Gastonia with visitation to immediately follow the service.
The family requests that memorial contributions be made to First ARP Church, 317 S. Chester Street, Gastonia, NC 28052.
