Mrs. Sandra Lee Harris

Sandra Lee Harris went home to Christ and loved ones on January 27, 2024. Her life, marked by unwavering faith, love, and service, leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were privileged to know her. Her life was a testament to the values she held dear.

Sandy was born to Henry and Marjorie Van Scoy on February 1, 1947, in Plainfield, New Jersey. She graduated in 1965 from JP Stephens High School in Edison, New Jersey, where she was captain of the twirling team.

On December 23, 1967, she married Gary C. Harris, embarking on a journey of love and companionship that spanned more than five decades. Their union was a source of strength and enduring commitment. After moving from New Jersey to Texas, they made their home in Arlington with their two children, Stacy and Scott.

Education was a cornerstone of Sandy’s life, and she pursued it with a passion. A graduate of Muhlenberg Hospital Nursing School, she furthered her studies at the University of Texas at Arlington, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing and an Interdisciplinary Master’s degree in Nursing, Medical Sociology and Business. Her academic achievements mirrored her dedication to excellence in the nursing profession.

Sandy’s professional journey began at Griffiss Air Force Base, where she served as a civilian nurse. Upon relocating to Texas in 1973, she joined Arlington Memorial Hospital, commencing a distinguished career over the next 37 years. Her professional career at AMH began as a nursing supervisor and transitioned to the LVN program, as an instructor, into quality management and finally onto Administration. Sandy retired from Arlington Memorial as the Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, in April 2010. The employees and physicians of Arlington Memorial remembered and praised Sandy as one who cared deeply for them, as well as the patients. She was known as a staunch advocate for the people she worked with.

Sandy’s advocacy extended beyond the hospital walls, as she championed causes close to her heart – hospice and rape crisis care. Her dedication to these causes continue to touch the lives of many, providing solace and support during challenging times.

A woman of deep faith, Sandy’s abiding trust in Christ guided every aspect of her life. Her spiritual strength was a source of comfort and inspiration to those around her. Her love for Christ was reflected in her kindness, compassion, and commitment to helping others. Sandy loved being in the word of God and was a long-term participant in Bible Study Fellowship.

Sandy loved her family and friends. She enjoyed “eating” (or at least so she said in her high school yearbook), shopping, traveling, watching Hallmark channel and napping with her dog Emma Kate.

Sandy is survived by her loving husband, Gary, her daughter Stacy Lee Arnold and husband Dr. John Arnold, her son Scott and wife Stephanie; Grandchildren: Bryce and Emily Harris, Brandon Tedder, Sam, Gus, Grace & Claire Arnold; Sisters Jane Van Scoy and Toby McClure; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Linda Allena and her granddaughter Brooke Lee Tedder.

As we celebrate the life of this remarkable woman, we find comfort in knowing that Sandy’s spirit will live on through the memories of her love, faith, and enduring impact on the lives she touched.

A celebration of Sandy’s life will be held on February 4, 2024, 3pm at Central Bible Church, with visitation from 1-3pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Sandra Harris to the Hospice Unit at Arlington Memorial Hospital. Click here to donate now and select the following:
Designation: Texas Health Arlington Memorial
Specify Program: THAM Hospice Unit

You can also donate by check to the Texas Health Foundation to benefit the Hospice Unit at Texas Health Arlington Memorial. Please add a note that your check is a Sandra Harris Memorial Gift. The address is:
PO Box 200038
Arlington, Texas 76006