Sandra Dunn Muraca

Sandra was born on May 16, 1947, in North Carolina to Marvin Dunn and Frances Tobin Dunn. She graduated from Hampton High School in Hampton, Virginia, with the Class of 1965 and went on to enjoy a distinguished career at NASA, where she worked for many years before retiring.

A longtime resident of Poquoson, Virginia, Sandra later fulfilled a lifelong dream by moving with her beloved husband, Ralph Muraca, to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Together they founded Misty Mountains Farm, where they raised and bred alpacas, transforming Sandra’s lifelong love of animals into a joyful retirement business. Animals were always an important part of her life, and she never met a pet that wasn’t considered family. Her compassion for animals and the happiness she found caring for them were among her defining qualities.

Sandra will be remembered for her kind heart, quiet strength, adventurous spirit, and deep love for her family, friends, and the many animals that enriched her life. Whether through her work, her farm, or the simple kindness she extended to others, she left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ralph Muraca; her parents, Marvin Dunn and Frances Tobin Dunn; and her brothers, Michael Dunn, Steven Dunn, and Paul Dunn.

Sandra is survived by her stepchildren, David Muraca (Amy), Lauren Morris, Linda Muraca, John Muraca (Sandy), and Charles Muraca; her step-grandchildren, Neil, Jessica, Lee, Frank, Harley, Walter, Charles Jr., Elena, Tyler, Isabel, and Rosemary; her sister-in-law, Nancy Dunn (Michael); and her nephews, Matt and Jason.

Sandra’s family finds comfort in knowing she has been reunited with Ralph and those who went before her. Her memory will live on through the lives she touched, the family she loved, and the countless animals she cared for with such devotion.

A celebration of Sandra’s life will be announced by the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a local animal rescue or humane society in her honor, reflecting the lifelong compassion she had for animals.