Sarah Jane Drumgoole

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Sarah Jane Goodson Drumgoole on February 26, 2026, at the age of 76. She was born on May 8, 1949, in the serene surroundings of James City County, Virginia, to the late James Bradsby Sr. and the late Emma Spence Bradsby. Sarah was a beacon of warmth and compassion, whose presence will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Sarah's life was a testament to resilience and service. She was educated in the Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools and was a proud graduate of Bruton Heights, class of 1967. She went on to serve her country with distinction in the United States Army, retiring from Fort Carson Base in Denver, Colorado, after more than 20 years of dedicated service. Her commitment to duty and her country was unwavering. After retiring from the military, she continued her service to the community by working for the United States Postal Service in Colorado Springs, where she remained until her retirement.

At an early age, she was baptized and joined Shiloh Baptist Church in Croaker, VA, where she faithfully served as an usher. Upon retiring, Sarah returned to Richmond, Virginia, to be closer to her family, rekindling her roots and rejoining her home church, Shiloh Baptist Church. As her health began to decline, she found solace and spiritual nourishment by attending nearby churches and eventually transferred her membership to St. Paul Baptist Church, where she was welcomed with open arms.

Terrence, as she would call him, was the love of her life, along with her granddaughter Tiara. She would light up when she talked about him. Sarah had a zest for life that was reflected in her love for thrift shopping and visiting flea markets. She found joy in the simple pleasures, like eating out and indulging in dessert as an appetizer, savoring each moment with delight. Her quiet spirit and contagious smile were accompanied by a quick wit that endeared her to everyone she met. Known for her thoughtful nature, she often brought joy to family gatherings with her famous grab-and-go bags, ensuring that everyone felt loved and included.

As we gather to remember and celebrate the life of Sarah Drumgoole, we find solace in the love she shared and the lives she touched. Her memory will forever be a blessing to all who were fortunate enough to know her. 

Sarah was preceded in death by her two brothers and a sister. Her life was marked by a deep and abiding love for her family who will cherish her memory, her husband, Joseph "Joe" Drumgoole; her beloved son, Terrence "Terry" Bradsby; her adored grandchildren, Tiara Russell and Marcus Howes; great-grandchildren, Leah Russell and Noah Russell; her siblings, James Bradsby Jr., Lelia Redd, and Veronica Bradsby (Tony); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who all held a special place in her heart.

A service with military honors to celebrate Sarah's life will be held at 12:00 p.m., Monday, March 16, 2026, at Whiting's Funeral Home, with a viewing beginning at 11:00 a.m. Mrs. Drumgoole's interment will take place at a later date at Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery. 

Professional services have been entrusted to the staff of Whiting's Funeral Home, 7005 Pocahontas Trail, Williamsburg, Virginia 23185. 757-229-3011 whitingsfuneralhome.com

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