Obituary of Barbara Sue Sanderson

Barbara Sue Sanderson of Bedford, VA passed away on February 6, 2025, at the age of 90. Barbara was born on March 6, 1934, in Washington, DC. She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Wilbur “Sandy” Sanderson, a son, Steven Sanderson and a sister, Patricia Kuhblank.

She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Shane and Tiffany Sanderson of Spanishburg, WV; her daughter and son-in-law, Shelby and Brian Stewart of Bedford, VA; two granddaughters; Samantha Boyles (Trey Boyles) of Bedford, VA and Kendall Laurencin (Brandon Laurencin) of Lancaster, SC as well as three great-grandchildren; Madilynn, Kaleb and Bryson Boyles and her beloved Australian Shepherd, Liberty.

Barbara attended American University in Washington, DC and later went on to attend Howard University in Washington, DC where she received her Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene. She worked in private practice in both DC and Calvert County Maryland until her retirement in 1996 when she and her husband moved to Bedford, VA to enjoy their boat on Smith Mountain Lake. Barbara couldn’t sit still though and after 9 months of retirement she went to work supporting the local elementary schools in Bedford by managing a fluoride mouth rinse program and speaking with parents, teachers and students about dental health. When the state of Virginia funded the children’s dental program, she resumed work as a dental hygienist at the Bedford County Health Department until 2012 completing a career spanning 60 years in dental offices.

Barbara and her husband lived on a small farm in Bedford, VA where she enjoyed decorating their old farmhouse and filling the gardens with beautiful flowering plants. She was an avid reader and especially enjoyed books about US History. She was also an antique dealer for many years in both Maryland and Virginia and loved the search for unique pieces for both her shop and her home. Fixing up old farmhouses really was her passion. She spent 38 years in Southern Maryland fixing up a home built in 1883. When she finally had that home just perfect she decided to move onto her next project in Bedford where she tackled top to bottom remodel of a house built in 1902.

Barbara donated her body to science so at this time there will be no grave side services. The family asks that if you are inclined, please make a donation in her honor to the animal charity of your choice.

Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.