Linda Mae Stephenson Sorenson was born in Fort Worth, Texas, to Ita Mae Dykes and William Stephenson, and lived a life dedicated to love, laughter, and the joy of connection. She was a beloved wife, daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Linda’s heart was filled with her love for Jesus, boundless compassion, and her welcoming spirit touched everyone she met.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Neil Sorenson, and her sisters, Camilla Jackson (F.E.) and Janet Holmes, who shared countless memories and laughs together over the years. Linda’s legacy continues through her children, Tammy Goodwin Myers, April McCurry (Michael), and Cory Goodwin (Gail), who were blessed to have her love and prayers in their lives. Her grandchildren—Alexis McCall, Tara Baker (Matthew), Bryce Sinnett (Logan), Grey Goodwin, Victoria McCurry, Shea Place (Parker), and Iana Myers—were her pride and joy, as were her great-grandchildren, Noah and Mya Baker, and Parker and Kendall Sinnett. Additional beloved family include Neil Sorenson, Jr., Ralph Sorenson (1957-2019), Gregory Cline, Lisa Bill, and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Linda’s love for people was the cornerstone of her life and career. She dedicated herself to supporting students as a special education teacher with multiple advanced certifications, taking a deep, personal interest in each child’s journey and well-being. She was also an active volunteer for Excelsior Extension Club, and a cherished member of the Foxy Ladies Red Hat Group. Linda saw the beauty in every person, never judging but always understanding. Her warmth invited others to share their stories, knowing they could trust her with their secrets and dreams.
Family gatherings with Linda were always a source of joy, filled with laughter, games, and shared moments. She loved nothing more than to see her family smiling and having fun, whether through a spirited game or a silly, made-up activity where everyone was expected to participate. Linda was the heart of her family, her laughter a melody that brought everyone together.
Linda Mae Stephenson Sorenson will be remembered for her love, her laughter, and her unwavering kindness. She leaves a legacy of warmth, compassion, and joy that will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. Her enthusiasm for life will continue to guide her family and friends, and she will be missed more deeply than words can express.
Funeral service will be 10 a.m., Saturday, November 16 at McConnell Funeral Home Chapel in Greenwood with burial at the Fort Smith National Cemetery. Viewing will be Friday from 1 – 7 p.m. at the funeral home, where the family will visit with friends from 5 – 7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Linda’s memory can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org , Breast Cancer Research Foundation www.give.bcrf.org , Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin www.dsaw.org or for veterans at Christmas Honors www.christmashonors.org.
To share a memory or leave a message for the family, please visit www.mcconnellfh.com
