Lois Marie Owen Sandidge

Lois Marie Owen Sandidge, formerly of Lynchburg, Virginia, passed away on July 26, 2025. Lois was born on January 30, 1942, to the late Ward B. Owen, Sr., and Grace Y. Owen. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Bryan E. Owen, Sr.; sister, Evelyn L. Owen; and sister-in-law, Mary Pat Owen.

Lois grew up in Brookneal and lived in Victoria and Lynchburg as an adult. She was a graduate of Longwood College and taught school in Lunenburg and Campbell County until her retirement in 2007. She loved her students and enjoyed hearing about their success after high school.

Lois enjoyed decorating, dressing stylishly, and traveling. She was fortunate to travel internationally as a teacher and later with her friends. She treasured the Cocker Spaniels and cats she adopted over the years. She was an active member of Quaker Memorial Presbyterian Church. In 2024, the challenges of dementia required her to move to Richmond to be closer to family.

Lois is survived by her brother, W.B. Owen, Jr., and wife, Susan; and her sons, Douglas W. Ridgeway, Jr., and wife, Terri; and Barry O. Ridgeway, and wife, Gail. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Sarah R. Stone, and husband, Aaron; Lauren G. Ridgeway, and Adam S. Ridgeway; and a great-grandson, Parker W. Stone.

A memorial service will be held at Quaker Memorial Presbyterian Church (5810 Fort Ave., Lynchburg) on August 12, 2025, at 11 AM. The family will greet friends after the service. A graveside service will be held at 2 PM at Wickliffe Cemetery in Brookneal.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org/cwva), the Lynchburg Humane Society (1211 Old Graves Mill Rd., Lynchburg, 24502) or Quaker Memorial Presbyterian Church.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family.