Natalie Renee McCandless

Natalie McCandless, beloved wife, sister, daughter, aunt, and devoted educator, passed away on January 15, 2026, at the age of 59. Born in Massillon, Ohio on December 19, 1966, Natalie lived a life marked by faith, service, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to others.

Natalie dedicated decades of her life to education as an elementary school teacher, where she made a profound and lasting impact on countless students, fellow teachers, and administrators. Her passion for teaching, coupled with her creativity and genuine care for children, earned her numerous awards and the deep respect of her school communities. She worked at Dallas Independent School District. Teaching was more than a profession to Natalie—it was a calling, and she answered it with grace, humor, and excellence.

A woman of strong Christian faith, Natalie was an active member of Prestonwood Baptist Church. Her faith guided her life and relationships, and she consistently put the needs of others before her own. Known for her wonderful sense of creativity and humor, Natalie brought warmth, laughter, and encouragement to all who knew her.

Natalie shared a loving life with her husband, Chris McCandless, in Frisco, Texas. She was a devoted sister to Steve Harris and his wife, Kristen, and a cherished aunt to their sons, Drew and Blake Harris, whom she adored. She is also survived by her younger sister, Valerie Harris, and her mother, Linda Freeland of Allen, Texas. She was preceded in death by her father Russell Harris.  Natalie’s love for her family was evident in every role she played—as a wife, sister, daughter, and aunt.

Natalie’s legacy lives on in the many lives she touched through her teaching, her faith, and her kindness. She will be remembered for her generous heart, her joyful spirit, and her lifelong dedication to helping others grow and succeed.

A celebration of Natalie’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Monday, January 26, 2026, in the chapel at Prestonwood Baptist Church, Plano, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, Natalie would prefer donations be made to help support the teachers and students where she taught. Contributions may be made by check to:

George H.W. Bush Elementary

Attn: Principal Carol Crowling

3939 Spring Valley Rd. Addison, Texas 75001

(972) 925-1700

Please note that donations are made in honor of Natalie McCandless.