Sarah Lee McCarter Cranford passed peacefully on January 2nd, 2025.  

She is survived by daughter Collins Roux (Rob Roux), son Scott Cranford, grandchildren, Carter Roux, Sarah Catherine Wood (Joey Wood), MacKenzie Roux, and great-granddaughter, Camille Wood. 

She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Judge Dwight L. Cranford, and beloved daughter-in-law, Melanie Stewart Cranford. 

Lee was born and raised in Burlington, North Carolina. She attended UNC, where she was a member of the second women’s nursing graduate class. While there, she was awarded the George R. Livas award. 

While in Chapel Hill, she met and married Dwight L Cranford and the couple moved to Roanoke Rapids where they raised their family. 

Lee’s passion was working with mothers & babies, spending a large part of her nursing career working with the Health Department of Halifax County. 

She also led efforts to collect backpacks for foster care children to hold their belongings, as well as collecting medical supplies and equipment from hospitals to be used for those who otherwise couldn’t receive services. 

Lee was an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Roanoke Rapids, as well as an active member of her community. 

Later she moved to Newton, North Carolina, and was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Newton.  She continued her passion for service by volunteering with VESPER services at the community where she resided.

Her memory survives in the love and hearts of her family and friends.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at New Cedarwood Cemetery with Rev. Joe Sandoval officiating.

Online condolences can be made to: www.wrennfh.com