Sandra G. Sharp of Traskwood passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026, at the Arkansas Health Center. She retired from the Health Center in 2019 and jokingly said she would "never be back." When life brought her return as a patient, she faced it with grit, resilience, and grace — even wearing a shirt that read, "When I retired from here in 2019, I said I'd never be back… Never say never." The staff appreciated her humor as much as she appreciated their care.

Born October 22, 1954, to Billy Fred and WathaLee Virginia Kuykendall, Sandra lived a life marked by sweetness, humor, and deep devotion to family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Sharp; her parents; and her brother, Arlie Kuykendall.

She is survived by her sons, Billy James ("BJ") Sharp, Frederick ("Freddy") Sharp, grandchildren Jonathan and Alexa Sharp, Freddy's longtime companion, Chenoa Douglas, and her daughters, Carrie and Jonah; her sister, Donna Stebbins (Rick) of Arizona; her brother, Mike Kuykendall (Carolyn) of Greers Ferry; and multiple nieces and nephews.  Michael Cullins, Mitchell (Tori) Cullins and their son Brynden. They were like her grandsons. Brynden was very attentive to Sandy as soon as he could crawl, making sure she played with him by bringing her toys and spending time with her without even being told. Even on days when she didn't respond to us she always watched and smiled at him. They had a special relationship.

Sandra shared a special and enduring bond with her siblings. She and Donna remained deeply connected throughout their lives, and in recent years, that closeness was evident through Donna's many trips from Arizona to be by her side. Her brother, Mike, had been her protector growing up, and that steady love and respect between them never faded. In her later years, the comfort she found in his presence reflected a lifelong bond rooted in loyalty and affection.

Sandra shared a lifelong and extraordinary bond with her niece, Evelyn "Lynn" Green (Marty) of Poyen. Sandy helped raise Lynn and loved her as her own daughter. As life came full circle, Sandy was surrounded by steadfast love and advocacy from those closest to her. Those who knew Lynn understood that her love for Sandy was fierce — steady, protective, and unwavering. Throughout Sandy's time at home and in facilities, Lynn remained a devoted advocate, ensuring — and at times demanding — that her comfort, dignity, and well-being were never compromised. Beneath that fierce protection was deep gratitude for the woman who helped shape her life — fostering her love of music, her humor, and the loyalty that defined their bond.

Lynn and her husband, Marty, were grateful for the opportunity to walk beside Sandy during her later years. Marty's gentle patience, quiet attentiveness, and loving care brought comfort and peace. He often anticipated her needs before she ever had to ask — whether adjusting her blanket or keeping her glass filled with fresh sweet tea — small acts that reflected deep respect and tenderness. The calm joy visible in Sandy's eyes during those moments spoke volumes.

Sandy was also blessed by the devoted companionship of Beverly Puckett of Poyen. What began as support became a deep and mutual bond. Beverly became part of the family, and the love, respect, and gratitude shared through those years will continue long after this chapter has closed.

Sandra loved horses, bingo, Razorback sports, and country music. She could recall players, coaches, and scores from years ago as if the games had just ended. Even when communicating became difficult, she could still sing every word to her favorite country songs. She was also family-famous for her fried chicken — perfected by heart and never quite duplicated.

One of her happiest memories was her 69th birthday trip to the Grand Ole Opry with Lynn and Marty. During the performance, her name and birthday were announced from the stage — a moment also carried live on the radio broadcast for all to hear. The look of pure surprise and the radiant smile that followed could have lit up Nashville.

Sandra received exceptional care from the staff at the Arkansas Health Center. Their compassion extended not only to her but to her entire family, and the gratitude felt for their kindness and support cannot be fully expressed.

In her final hours, country music played softly as the family gathered close. There was conversation, laughter, and even a lighthearted, silly song being sung when she gently slipped away. Though the moment was bittersweet, it felt fitting — wrapped in the humor, music, and love that defined her family. Her passing was peaceful, surrounded by love.

Visitation will be held Friday, February 20, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Ashby Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Ashby's, with burial to follow at Traskwood Cemetery, where she will be placed beside her beloved Billy.

In honor of Sandra's deep love for the Arkansas Razorbacks, family and friends are encouraged to wear their favorite Razorback attire and jeans to the service — just the way she would have liked it.