Sandra Lee Blue Bethea

Sandra Lee Blue Bethea peacefully transitioned to be with the Lord on February 20, 2026, in the home she shared with her daughter in Greensboro, North Carolina. She entered eternal rest holding her daughter’s hand while listening to one of her favorite gospel songs, “Incredible God, Incredible Praise” by JJ Hairston. Her final moments were filled with worship, prayer, and love.

Sandra was born and raised in Newport News, Virginia, in the Jefferson Park subdivision, where she spent the majority of her life before relocating to Greensboro, North Carolina to live with her daughter. She was born on January 15, 1957, to the late Hattie Gertrude Blue and Burrean Bigger, and was also lovingly raised by her stepmother, the late Lenora Bigger.

She was the youngest of five children and was preceded in death by her parents, stepmother, and siblings: Shaffer Bigger, Earl Bigger, Cornelius Bigger, and Alice Bigger.

Sandra was the devoted wife of the late Johnny Bethea.

She leaves behind two loving daughters, Shania Blue and Jeanine Blue, and eight cherished grandchildren: Jahkiem, JJ, Jonnice, Jahari, Irving, Israel, Jordan, and Jahliea. She loved her grandchildren fiercely and prayed for them daily.

Sandra was a faithful member of St. Mark Pentecostal Church in Portsmouth, Virginia for over 30 years, where she served in ministry and as a member of the choir. Her love for God and the church was unwavering.

She was strong-willed, intelligent, and carried herself with dignity. She loved dressing beautifully for church in elegant suits, statement hats, and matching acrylic nails. She was known for her sweet potato pies and homemade cookies, which she baked and sold after Sunday services and during the holiday season.

Long before tax software existed, Sandra prepared taxes by hand with paper and pencil for members of her community. Her knowledge and confidence inspired her daughter, Shania Blue, to open her own professional tax firm — a living extension of her mother’s legacy.

Sandra was also a devoted caregiver to her parents and stepmother in their later years. Service and sacrifice defined her love.

Special Recognition

She was deeply loved and supported by her devoted friends: Elder Jean McDuffie, Deaconess Peggy Jackson, Minister Patricia Davis, and Pastor Gay Gray.

Special recognition is extended to her beloved Aunt Alberta Currie, and twin cousins Brenda Bethea and Linda Blue, who prayed with her daily during her transition. Sandra smiled during her final prayer with her aunt — a moment forever treasured.

The family extends sincere gratitude to Dr. Phillip Aseno, FNP Daniel Ntibrey, Hospice of the Piedmont, and Hospice Nurse Molly, along with Terrica Johnson, Tammy Hughes, Del, and the dedicated bathers and sitters who provided compassionate care.

Special thanks to loving neighbors Ms. Opal, Ms. Nelly, and Ms. Christine for their kindness and support.

Favorite Scriptures

John 14:2–3 “In my Father’s house are many mansions…”

2 Timothy 4:7 “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”

Proverbs 31:25 “She is clothed with strength and dignity…”

Psalm 23:1 “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”