FORT SMITH — Catherine Sandahl

passed away peacefully Monday evening, surrounded by her family. Catherine was born April 28, 1931, in Fort Smith, the only child of Catherine Youmans McCartney and Paul E. McCartney, and was a granddaughter of Federal Judge Frank A. Youmans. She spent most of her life in Fort Smith, and as a member of the First Presbyterian Church.

Catherine attended Fort Smith High School, graduating in 1949, and went on to Randolph-Macon Woman’s College, where she joined Chi Omega sorority. Catherine transferred to the University of Arkansas and graduated in 1953. After returning to Fort Smith, she spent her time teaching at Madden School of Dance, where she had enjoyed many hours dancing as a young girl. In 1953 Catherine met a handsome soldier who was stationed at Fort Chaffee. She would marry Paul Sandahl in 1955, and would go on to have three children.

Catherine was very active in First Presbyterian Church of Fort Smith and Presbyterian Women. She represented her church at Church Women United for many years. She also loved her many civic activities, including the board of Lincoln Daycare, Junior League, P.E.O., Wednesday Club, Sparks Guild, and the Fort Smith Chorale Board. She continued to practice dance as a hobby through the years, and joined Paul in his love of music. They loved to travel and hike. One of her favorite things was meeting with dear friends for hikes, picnics, and birthday lunches. Catherine was the embodiment of grace and gentle kindness, and those who knew her remember a quick and subtle sense of humor, which served her well through her ending days.

She is survived by her husband Paul Sandahl; daughter, Anne Amacker (Tom) of Plano, Texas; daughter, Margaret Little (Jeff) of Dallas, Texas; son, Locke Sandahl (Cynthia) of Nashville, Tenn.; and six grandchildren, Ellen Angel, Mary Haupert, Andrew Little, Alex Little, Gretchen Sandahl, Elisabeth Sandahl; and three great-grandchildren, Eve and Evan Angel, and Elena Catherine Haupert.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday May 8, 2021, at 11 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church. Masks will be required. The service will be livestreamed at www.1pres.org. Private family burial will be in Forest Park Cemetery under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. The family will receive guests in the fellowship hall, following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contribution may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Fort Smith.

Online condolences may be sent to: www.edwardsfuneralhome.com