Sandra Rister

Sandra Smith Rister, of Aaron's Creek, Virginia, passed away Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the age of 86. Sandra was born on March 22, 1939, in Halifax County to the late Garland Smith and Virginia Pool Smith. She was married to the late Bernard Rister.

After graduating from Madison University, Sandra began her career as a school librarian in Virginia Beach, Virginia. She retired after 34 years and returned to Aaron's Creek to care for her parents. She often said that she had an idyllic childhood, growing up in Aaron's Creek on a farm with loving parents, sweet neighbors, and so many beloved cousins. Life had come full circle for her when she got to return.

Sandra loved Aaron's Creek Baptist Church that she had grown up in. She was very passionate about sharing her love of God with others. She taught the lady's Sunday School class for many years, helped in Vacation Bible School, and sang in the church choir. Her sweet soprano voice will be so missed. Sandra was also a Tom Downing Fellow of the Aaron's Creek Ruritan Club, and served a term on the Halifax County School Board. She was also an active member of Virgilina Women's Club.

Sandra will be lovingly remembered by her friends, cousins, and the many children of her heart that she taught and loved over the years.

Now that Sandra has passed into the arms of God, it is the beginning of an eternal and beautiful journey for her.

A funeral service for Sandra will be held at on Sunday, March 30th, at Aaron's Creek Baptist Church at 2:00 pm with a reception following.

If desired, friends may make memorial contributions to Aaron's Creek Baptist Church 1066 Aaron's Creek Rd. Virgilina, VA 24598.