She was the only daughter and heiress of Robert Wolrych (died 11 December 1661), bencher of Gray's Inn.

In 1700 she built and endowed an almshouse at York for ten poor women of her own religious views.

The plaque on the building reads "This hospital was founded and endowed by Dame Sarah the Relict of Sir John Hewley of the City of York, Knight.

[4] Hewley died in York in 1710 after instructing that her "vile body" should be disposed of cheaply and without additional ceremony.

Portraits of Sir John Hewley and his wife are preserved in the vestry of St Saviourgate Chapel.