SANDRA BLACKARD LEVIN
died unexpectedly on Sunday, December 31, 2023. Sandy was born in Kansas City, Mo., on July 17, 1943. Raised primarily in Topeka, Kan., she eventually moved to Little Rock in 1969 where she enjoyed working for Twin City Bank. She then met Dr. Frederick Levin, the love of her life, and they wed in 1971 as she stepped into her most cherished role as mother and wife.
Besides devoting herself to raising her family and supporting her husband’s passion for pediatrics, Sandy spent her years in Central Arkansas serving as a member of the Junior League of North Little Rock and in the sisterhood at Temple B’nai Israel in Little Rock. She was fiercely loyal to both family and friends that were family alike, and she also had a soft spot for the underdog. Her generosity knew no bounds for those she saw in need, and she always wanted to lend a helping hand.
Sandy was bold, charismatic, independent, feisty, and always authentic. Her favorite place was near the water, and she always looked forward to summers on their houseboat at Lake Ouachita or time at her beloved beach condo at Palm Island. She was an avid fan of Alabama football and Rod Stewart, she loved NCAA basketball, and was always ready to try her luck at a good slot machine or two. She loved to travel and explore new places, making countless memories with loved ones through her adventures abroad. Sandy was always easy to spot in her bright colors and sparkly accessories, and she never met a stranger.
Sandy is survived by her devoted husband of 50 years, Dr. Frederick Levin; her children Kirsta Nigro (Keith), Stefanie Levin, Dr. John Levin (Corbin), Mark Levin (Krysten), and Alexis Levin (Seth); her grandchildren Jeffery Bolts, Jennifer School (Nathan), Hallie Pingel, John Austin Levin, Alice Levin, Philip Levin, and Samuel Levin; her great-grandchild Eleanore School.; her brother Mark Blackard (Peggy) and sister Portia Ortale (Pat); and countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and close family friends. She is preceded in death by her mother and stepfather Alice and William Lichtenstern; stepmother and father John and Joyce Blackard; and one son David Levin.
A memorial service will be held in Sandy’s memory on Wednesday, January 3, 2024 at 2 p.m. at Temple B’nai Israel, 3700 N. Rodney Parham Road, Little Rock, Ark., with Rabbi Barry Block officiating. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Sandra at one of the following: Henry S. Jacobs Camp, The Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota, Temple B’nai Israel, ACCESS in Little Rock, or another worthy cause that is meaningful to you.