Reba Allen Sandell of Charlottesville, age 83, passed away at Greenfield Reflections in Strasburg, on May 4, 2017.

She was born in Wheatfield, Va., but moved to Strasburg where she spent her childhood.

As soon as she graduated, she couldn't wait to leave the small town life. She attended Madison College (JMU) and then on to the University of Virginia where she earned her Master's in Education. It appears from her photo albums, that college life was a blast.

Reba taught business courses at Waynesboro and Albemarle high schools, retiring after 40 plus years. She continued up until her death, to mentor and encourage young people in pursuit of their careers. Never slowing down, she also worked at her beloved Talbots, which satisfied her desire for fine clothing and accessories. She went about the next 20 years, filling her 4 bedroom house's closets and drawers with clothes. During this time she also set out to see the world with friends. She had been to every continent, cruised through the Panama canal 3 times, collected 120 refrigerator magnets from visited countries, all thanks to Princess cruises. She was an expert, seasoned traveler.

Reba was the daughter of Edna Shipwash and Lester Heishman of Strasburg.

She is survived by her brother, Rowland E. Heishman, nieces and nephews with whom she kept up with through the family gossip tree and the most wonderful friends who will miss her grace and presence.

She was preceded boarding the ultimate cruise, by her special friend, Virginia "Ginny" Bowen, who played the "Yan" in their Yin Yan relationship. And Holly her beloved cat.

A celebration of her life was held on July 22, 2017, at Greencroft Club, a favorite place, with family, neighbors and dear friends remembering her "life well lived".

Submitted by Sue Critzer Hughes and Sam Clarke.