Sandra Gayle Blackmon Meeks, 85 of Arab, Alabama, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, November 12, 2026, leaving behind a beautiful legacy of faith, love, family, and cherished memories. Born on July 9, 1941, Sandra was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother whose life was centered around her family and Christian faith. She treasured the time spent with those she loved.
At the young age of 20, Sandra began her career as a beautician, a profession that would become much more than a livelihood. As the proud owner of her own beauty shop beside her home in Arab, Alabama, she spent many years serving her community. Through her work, Sandra developed lasting friendships with her clients, many of whom became like family. Her beauty shop was more than a place for hairstyles; it was a place for conversation, laughter, friendship, and fellowship. Her dedication to her profession and the relationships she built throughout her career were a meaningful part of her life.
Above all, Sandra’s greatest joy and most memorable day of her life was the day she received the precious gift of the Holy Ghost. It was an experience that forever changed her life and brought peace and joy that satisfied her soul for all eternity. Remembering that special moment, Sandra shared, “Things look so new, beautiful, and bright; things look so pretty; I feel so good.” Those simple yet powerful words reflected the beauty of her faith and the spiritual transformation she experienced. Her testimony will remain a treasured reminder of her love for God and the promise of eternal life.
She is survived by her loving husband, Terry “Lamar” Meeks; her three daughters, Vicki Blackmon Riggins Jones (Eddie), Pamela Blackmon Howard, and Cathi Blackmon Gamble (Randy); and her two stepsons, Blake Meeks and Mitch Meeks (Cherrie). She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Michael Riggins (Heather), Mindy Riggins McPeters (Steadman), Brittany Nix (Brady Hanson), Josh Gamble (Brittany), Chris Gamble (Tatum), Austin Meeks, Ashleigh Meeks, Andrew Meeks, and Lillian Meeks. Her great-grandchildren include Michaela Riggins Drake (Ivan), Haden Riggins (Courtney), Haley Riggins, Charlee McPeters, Blaze Hanson, Landon Gamble, Langston Gamble, Laykon “Boo” Gamble, and Willow “Dilly” Gamble. Sandra was also blessed with five great-great-grandchildren: Caine Drake, Holden Riggins, Casen Riggins and Remi Riggins. Sandra was preceded in death by her first husband, Charles Lee Blackmon, Jr. Parents, Lester Isaac Garrison and Velma Bramlett Garrison.
Graveside Service will be 2:00 p.m. Sunday, November 16, 2026, at Arab Memorial Cemetery with Brother Nicky Willmon and Brother Wayne Walls officiating, Gober Funeral Chapel directing.
Serving as pallbearers will be Steadman McPeters, Charlee McPeters, Blake Meeks, Mitch Meeks, Haden Riggins, Michael Riggins, and Ivan Drake.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Aveanna Hospice, especially nurses Tabitha Nichols and Bree Holsinger, and physician Dr. Patrick Tucker, for the exceptional care, compassion, and support provided to Sandra during her final days. Your kindness and dedication will always be remembered and deeply appreciated.
While her family mourns her passing, they find comfort in knowing that the same Lord who filled her soul with joy and peace has now welcomed her into her eternal home.
“Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:21 (KJV)
