Sandra Francine Cooper, affectionately known as Sandie, entered eternal rest on November 29, 2025, at the age of 73. Born on March 9, 1952, in Newark, New Jersey, she was the beloved daughter of the late Walter Royals and Nan Baldwin. Raised and educated in the East Orange, New Jersey public school system, Sandie's early life was characterized by curiosity, compassion, and a natural inclination to care for others—qualities that guided her throughout her life and shaped her career in nursing.

Sandie earned her nursing degree from Georgian Court College and embarked on a remarkable career that spanned more than three decades. As a dedicated, highly skilled registered nurse, she earned numerous awards and certifications, always striving for excellence. Her professional journey included impactful roles such as Head Nurse at the Arthur Brisbane Child Treatment Center, where she provided supportive counseling and crisis intervention for adolescents; Head Nurse at St. Clare's Home Aids Resource Foundation for Children; Assistant Nurse Manager at Children's Specialized Hospital; and Staff Nurse in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Monmouth Medical Center. Her work touched countless families during their most vulnerable moments, and she delivered care with deep empathy, patience, and grace.

After relocating with her beloved husband, Calvin Cooper to Chester, Virginia, Sandie continued her commitment to healthcare through her work with Anthem Healthcare System, where she concluded her distinguished career. Whether caring for seniors, supporting children in mental health crisis, or nurturing fragile infants in the NICU, Sandie poured her heart into every role. Her legacy is one of unwavering compassion, professionalism, and a profound commitment to healing.

Sandie's greatest joy, however, was her family. She leaves behind her devoted husband of 45 years, Calvin Cooper; her mother, Nan Baldwin; her children, Rodneia A. Royals and Brian Cooper (Stephanie); her precious grandchildren, Marcus and Mia; and her loving sister, Elaine Staley. She also leaves behind a host of relatives and dear friends who will forever hold her close in their hearts.

Those who knew Sandie remember her gentle spirit, her ability to make learning enjoyable, and her exceptional patience.

In her early years, she enjoyed bowling and spent countless hours crafting, creating, and doing ceramics, expressing her artistic spirit. She loved fashion and attended Emily Miles, known as the First Lady of Fashion, at the Newark Belle Meade Charm School. An avid reader, Sandie kept a sharp eye on current events and had a keen interest in the stock market, always eager to learn, analyze, and share her insights. She also had a passion for water, which often led her to beach vacations.

Sandie's life was a testament to love, service, and quiet strength. She will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.

May her beautiful soul rest in peace, and may her memory continue to be a guiding light for all who loved her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a cause Sandie held in high regard.

Services will be announced by the family at a later date.

J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.