Sandra Gail Boyd Johnson

Sandra Gail (Boyd) Johnson, 80, of Mt. Airy, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025, in the town where she was born and raised. Born on May 8, 1945, to Jonah and Agnes Boyd, Sandra lived a life marked by quiet strength, deep faith, and unwavering love for her family and community.

Sandra was the beloved wife of James Monroe Johnson and devoted mother to Chris (Tammy) Johnson and Drew (Shannon) Johnson. She was a proud grandmother to Samuel (Mariah) Johnson, Ally (Tyler) Stanke, and Brady Johnson, and a joyful great-grandmother to Frank Zephyr Keogh-Meleca and Osiris Cohen Keogh-Johnson. She is also survived by her brother Glen (Pat) Boyd. Sandra held the special title of, “Aunt Woman” to Angie (David) Bumgarner and was a loved aunt to many nieces and nephews.

A woman of many talents and deep compassion, Sandra dedicated much of her adult life to ministry within the deaf community of Surry County through Fellowship Baptist Church. Her service extended beyond the church walls, as she was always ready to volunteer when called upon.

Professionally, Sandra broke barriers at Proctor Silex, excelling in roles traditionally held by men and earning a reputation as the best tow motor operator there. After the factory closed, she pursued and earned a degree in Information Technology, later serving Surry County until her retirement.

Many in Mt. Airy will remember Sandra as the heart behind Down Home, the beloved restaurant she co-founded with her dear friend Bonnie Reynolds. Her cooking, especially her legendary pound cakes, brought comfort and joy to many.

Though private by nature, Sandra expressed her love through acts of service, her faith, and her food. She met life’s challenges with grace, resilience, and an open heart, always guided by her devotion to Jesus and her community.

Sandra’s legacy of love, faith, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. A Celebration of Sandra’s life will be held on Monday, November 10, 2025 at 2pm at Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church. The family will receive friends on Monday from 12pm until the time for the service at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to alz.org (Alzheimer’s Association). A special thanks to the devoted staff of the memory care unit at Twelve Oaks and Mountain Valley Hospice, whose care and compassion are deeply appreciated by our family.