Sandra (Whittenton) Tart

Sandra Whittenton Tart completed her earthly journey on Friday, September 17, 2021, surrounded by the love of her Savior, her family and friends, and her faith community. Throughout her life Sandee was a constant and loving daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother, a trustworthy friend, and an unhesitant contributor to the needs of her community.  When Sandee became a young woman, she gave her heart to Christ and chose a Christian way of life, and she lived each day that way until she passed.  She found her strength and inspiration from countless hours of study, fellowship, and prayer.

Sandee was born to Vennie Hardee Whittenton on October 30, 1953, in Honolulu, Hawaii, where she lived until 1955, when her father, Clarence Thomas Whittenton, completed his military service and returned to Johnston County with his young family to farm.  Her “sis”, Debbie, joined them in 1956, and the two girls became companions and “co-conspirators” for life, as sisters often do.

A genuine “farmer’s daughter”, Sandee grew up blessed with loving parents and the support of her two large, extended families, many still living near the farm. She worked hard at school, at home, and in the fields, but she also made time to play, and for her passions, singing and playing the piano.  After she graduated from South Johnson High School in 1972, she entered Free Will Baptist Bible College, now Welch College, in Gallatin, Tennessee. There she met and married Michael Tart, who was studying for the ministry. They welcomed their daughter, Amanda Michelle Tart, in 1985. Amanda later graced Sandee with a grandson to love and nurture, Michael Thomas Solana, in 2008.

Sandee loved being a mother and grandmother. Amanda and Michael were the joys of her life, and she worked tirelessly to provide for and nurture them, and herself. She also cherished the love and support of several close friends, returning the same constancy and support whenever she was able. Many were members of her faith community at Central Baptist Church, a ministry and congregation that Sandee deeply and sincerely treasured for more than twenty years. 

Sandee was predeceased by her parents, Thomas & Vennie Whittenton, and most of her aunts and uncles. She is survived by Amanda Tart and Michael Solana. In addition to Amanda and Michael, Sandee is survived by her sister, Debbie W. Eason (Joe) of Raleigh, her Aunt Penny and Uncle Kenneth Dixon of Johnston County, and by several of her cousins and their descendants. Special thanks and appreciation is expressed to the medical professionals and staff at UNC Rex Hospital for their compassion, and for the care and comfort provided to Sandee. In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family respectfully asks that any remembrances be contributed to Central Baptist Church, 11109 Poole Road, Wendell, N.C.  27591, or to a charity of their choice.

A service to celebrate Sandee’s life will be held at 2:00 pm, Thursday, September 23, 2021 at Central Baptist Church Chapel (Building B), 11109 Poole Road, Wendell, NC 27591. The family will receive relatives and friends immediately following the service.

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