Sandra Phillips was born on October 1, 1944, on Hatteras Island. She would have celebrated her 82nd birthday this coming October. She stepped into glory on April 12, 2026. It was on Hatteras Island that she met her husband, Ken Phillips of Swansboro, who was serving in the United States Coast Guard. During their married life, they moved to Raleigh, where Sandy began and built a long and distinguished real estate career. 

     Sandy worked for many years as a Realtor with Fonville Morrissey and devoted more than 50 years to the real estate industry. Throughout her career, she served in a variety of roles, including Broker-in-Charge for Bluewater and later in site sales for DR Horton. For more than a decade, she was not only a valued member, but a cherished part of the Bogue Banks Realty family. 

     Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sandy was deeply compassionate and had a lifelong love for animals. She often took in cats that were left behind at sold homes and was known for her kindness toward all animals, including the wildlife she lovingly cared for around her home. She was an amazing Aunt who always offered guidance without judgement. She was the cornerstone of her family in many ways. Her talents ran deep as she enjoyed sewing, painting, decorating, cooking and jewelry making. 

     Sandy was also a fierce fighter. She survived stage IV inflammatory breast cancer and endured chemotherapy for nineteen years with remarkable strength and resilience. She befriended many fellow survivors and was a shining example of graceful courage. 

     She will be remembered for her dedication to real estate, her generosity of spirit, and her unwavering compassion for both people and animals. She is survived by her nephew, Bruce Ballance, and niece, Angel Ballance Akins and husband Robert, of Hatteras, as well as, their children, Adrian, Bryant, Tori, Asa and wife Katie, Devin and wife Kaitlin, Gunnar and Cassidy. Many cousins kept in touch with her, despite the distance between them, and members of Ken's Family were close to her, as well. She will be missed by many but will remain in our hearts and memories. May she rest in peace with Uncle Ken.