Ann Gracey Sanderson

Published 4:51 pm Wednesday, April 30, 2025

Dec. 13, 1936 – April 16, 2025

Ann Gracey Sanderson (née Mary Ann Gracey), 88, passed away on April 16. A lifelong Virginian residing at Ashby Farm in Cartersville and Tuckahoe Pines in Henrico. 

Ann was known for her strength, warmth, quick wit, determination, and unmistakable Southern style.

Born in Blackstone, Ann graduated from Blackstone High School where she was active in 4-H and livestock. Then on to Madison College where she graduated in 1957. She earned her master’s degree from Longwood College in 1973 while raising two daughters — an achievement that reflected her determination and drive. She began her career in Cumberland County as an Extension Agent where she was introduced by Sallie Mae Pleasants to her future husband, Eldridge Sanderson. They were married for 51 years.

Over her 33-year career with Virginia Cooperative Extension, Ann became Eastern District Director, overseeing programs in 39 counties plus additional cities. In 1991, she was awarded the Outstanding Individual Award from Epsilon Sigma Phi for her leadership and collaborative approach. Her retirement was honored at Jamestown 4-H Center, where she was involved with the renovation and expansion of the existing facility and where a commemorative plaque was unveiled in her name. 

Ann’s next chapter was full of passion projects — serving as a Cumberland County Board of Supervisors, the Cumberland County Planning Commission and antiques. She launched a successful antique business rooted in her appreciation for history and beauty. She also served on community boards and supported local services. Her guiding principle: She enjoyed gardening, flowers and boxwoods, that is, wanting to enjoy flowers while living. The Sandersons enjoyed entertaining, both social and political, at their home. Her home at Ashby was on the 250-year “In-And-Around Cartersville Tour”.

Ann spent her final two and a half years at Tuckahoe Pines Resort Lifestyle Community, where she continued to connect, learn and enjoy life. 

She is survived by her daughters, Ann Carol Sanderson and Ginger Marie Sanderson; her sister, Rebecca Arnason (Chuck); and many beloved extended family and friends.

She will be dearly missed and remembered for her grace, humor, and sassy Southern flair. In Ann’s own words, “Just tell them -I am gone.”

Please join the family and friends at Tuckahoe Pines, 12330 Patterson Avenue, Richmond, VA 23238 on Saturday, May 3, for a celebration of life at 2 p.m. 

In fashion only fitting of Ann’s southern grace, it falls on the Kentucky Derby Day. Please wear your finest derby attire as Ann loved entertaining and throwing good parties.

Ann’s graveside burial will be held at Thomas Chapel, 1313 Cartersville Road, Cartersville, VA 23027, on Saturday, May 17, at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Jamestown 4-H Center, 3751 4-H Club Rd., Williamsburg, VA 23185 or online at jamestown4hcenter.org and mention Ann’s name in the comments section.