Catherine Ann Sager

Catherine Ann Shortsleeve Sager, 71, of Schenectady, New York, passed away on Monday, May 25, 2026.

Born in Albany, New York, Catherine was the daughter of the late Raymond Abram Shortsleeve and Evelyn Leilia (Wetzel) Shortsleeve. She spent her life in Schenectady, where she built a home filled with love, kindness, and care for those around her.

Catherine found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved knitting, crocheting, tending to her flowers, and collecting rocks and crystals. Music was almost always playing in her home, and fresh flowers could be found throughout the house. She had a bright spirit and a gentle way about her that made others feel welcome.

Some of her happiest memories were made on family camping trips to Thacher Park with her former husband, Virgil Sager, and their children. She enjoyed long walks, time spent outdoors, and the company of those she loved.

For more than ten years, Catherine worked at Heritage Home for Women. As a nurse's aide, she devoted herself to caring for others and also volunteered her time at the local food bank. She was a faithful member of the First Reformed Church of Schenectady and lived her life guided by compassion, generosity, and service to others.

Above all else, Catherine was devoted to her family. Her face would light up whenever she saw them, especially her grandson Christopher. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Her door was always open, her heart was always giving, and her presence brought comfort to those around her. Her unwavering devotion to caring for her son Willy was one of the many ways she expressed her deep and enduring love.

Catherine is survived by her children, Michael Paul (Erikalyn Zadlo) Sager of Delanson and William Raymond Sager of Saratoga. She is also survived by her siblings, Joseph (Joyce) Shortsleeve, Marie Unson, and Sarah Shortsleeve; her beloved nieces, Jennifer Smith and Leilia Mosher; and her grandson, Christopher Sager, whom she adored beyond measure.

In addition to her parents, Catherine was predeceased by her brother, Larry Shortsleeve.

Catherine will be remembered for her warmth, her gentle spirit, and the love she so freely shared with family, friends, and all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, from 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm, with a prayer service to begin at 5:30pm, at Jones Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave., Albany NY.