Shirley Sanders obituary: Shirley A. Sanders, age 91, of Sterling, who departed from this world on Friday, March 15, 2024, at Resthave Home in Morrison.
Shirley was born on April 29, 1932, in Rockford, the daughter of Philip Francis and Edna Mary (Mueller) Ladenberger. She attended Sterling High School, where she laid the foundation for a life filled with love, compassion, and dedication to her family. On February 23, 1952, she embarked on a journey of love and partnership, marrying James F. Sanders at Camp Lejeune, NC. Their union was blessed with three children and many cherished memories. Shirley’s beloved husband, James, preceded her in death on June 12, 2003.
Throughout her life, Shirley was a pillar of strength and faith, finding solace and community as a longtime member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sterling. Her devotion to her faith guided her actions and illuminated the path of her life, touching the hearts of all who knew her.
Shirley will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her daughter, Cheryl Sanders, her sons, Steve (Veronica) Sanders and David (Teresa) Sanders, her sister, Jeanie O’Hare, and her brother, Donald Ladenberger. She is also survived by seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, each a testament to the love and legacy she leaves behind.
In addition to her husband, Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, her granddaughter Erica Feldhouse, her sisters Doris Pauline Ewers and Martha Mellott, and her brother Richard Ladenberger.
The family will receive friends for visitation on Saturday, March 16, 2024, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at the McDonald Funeral Home, located at 505 1st Avenue in Sterling. A funeral service honoring Shirley’s life will follow at 11:00 AM at the funeral home. The burial will then conclude at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Sterling.
As we bid farewell to Shirley, let us cherish the memories we shared and the love she bestowed upon us. May her gentle spirit and unwavering faith continue to guide us, and may she rest in eternal peace in the loving embrace of her Savior.