Sandra Bernadette Felton

Sandra Bernadette Felton, born on February 20, 1951, in Norfolk, VA, to the late William and Marion Parker, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2024, at the age of 73.

Sandra was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who cherished her family wholeheartedly, including the 50+ year partnership she shared with her beloved husband, Arthur C. Felton Jr., affectionately called “Bunny.” Sandra was known for her love of baking, reading, and spending quality time with her family. She touched many lives with her quiet resilience, heartfelt kindness, and compassionate spirit.

By 1969, when Sandra attended a debutante ball (accompanied by Bunny) and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in Norfolk, VA, the two were inseparable. They soon married, and in the early days of their marriage, Sandra worked at a store that sold L'eggs pantyhose until Bunny humorously insisted she needed a “real job.” Shortly thereafter, she began a successful long-term career at Bell Atlantic, which later became Verizon Communications, retiring in 2001. Although she was the prudent stabilizer in her marriage, her playful banter with Bunny and spontaneous antics often provided comic relief for anyone paying attention—for instance, the time she accidentally ran over the mailbox or hit the house with her car (though Bunny was somewhat to blame, as he had taught her to drive). The two remained inseparable until his passing on November 26, 2018.

Sandra took immense pride in her children and grandchildren, frequently celebrating their accomplishments, big and small. According to “Grammy”, as the grandkids lovingly called her, they could do no wrong. Family cookouts and gatherings were never complete without one of Sandra’s homemade desserts. Her signature dishes included her lemon or Cool Whip cake, her delicious rum cake, and her stimulating “better than sex” cake.

Sandra is survived by her children, Arthur III (Crystal), Shenette, and Tamara (Donald); her grandchildren, Sam, Safron Jr., Sydni, Cameron, Alana, and Nina; and her siblings, Gene, Robin, Deborah, Tracey, Krystal, Kimberly, and Dawn. She also leaves behind a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, close family friends, and many in-laws, including Roger, Yedetta, Danette (aka Tootsie), Ramsey and Barbara, and Audrey. Sandra was predeceased by her brothers, Michael Parker and Jerry Parker.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Tootsie, Bunny’s sister, who steadfastly kept her word to him to look after Sandra. Tootsie visited Sandra frequently, sometimes multiple times a week, to ensure her well-being. The family also wishes to thank the staff in the memory care unit at Commonwealth Senior Living Leigh Hall, where Sandra spent her last two years, and the staff at Suncrest Hospice, who provided compassionate care during her final five months. Their support and dedication to Sandra’s comfort are deeply appreciated.

As noted by the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s can affect individuals under age 65, with African Americans at a higher risk. It is important to understand the risk factors, recognize the signs, and discuss preventive and treatment options with your doctor.

To honor Sandra’s life, a private remembrance service for close family and friends will be held at Rosewood-Kellum Funeral Home. Condolences may be shared at www.kellumfuneralhome.com. For those who wish to send flowers, consider the color blue, as it was Sandra’s favorite, or a houseplant in her memory.