Nancy A. Sanders, 82, a cherished and remarkable presence, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024.
Born on Feb. 24, 1942, Nancy’s journey began in Point Pleasant, West Virginia, a daughter of the late Jack and Thelma (Coon) Rogers.
A proud graduate of the Point Pleasant High School Class of 1960, Nancy continued her educational journey at Davis & Elkins College, graduating in 1964. During her junior year of college, Nancy entered into the Warrant Officers Career Course of the US Marine Corps. Following her graduation from college, she relinquished her commission to pursue her education. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to the University of Pittsburgh for graduate studies, a pivotal time where she met her beloved husband, Larry H. Sanders. They married on July 9, 1966, in the town where it all began for her, Point Pleasant.
Nancy was first employed as an educator, teaching English at WACC and in the Williamsport Area School District. Later, her academic achievements culminated in her graduation from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science, where she graduated top of her class. She then received her Pennsylvania Funeral Director's license in 1990. Alongside her husband, she took great pride in serving her community as the co-owner and operator of Sanders Mortuary. She was a member of the National, PA, and Central Pennsylvania Funeral Directors Associations, where her professional life was deeply intertwined with her personal commitment to service.
A woman of deep faith, Nancy was a long-standing member of St. Joseph the Worker Parish and St. John’s-Newberry United Methodist Church, where she dedicated 40 years to teaching Sunday School. Her commitment to her faith and her community was also reflected in her involvement with various organizations. Nancy was a proud member of Zeta Tau Alpha and Mu Sigma Alpha, as well as the Repasz Band. Her altruistic spirit shone through her volunteer work with Friends of the Court, her service on the Board for the St. John’s School of the Arts, and her volunteer work at the Williamsport Home.
A woman of many interests, Nancy was an avid reader and a regular at morning coffee groups, where she shared thoughtful conversation and laughter with friends. She was a lover of "The Andy Griffith Show" and possessed a sharp wit that allowed her to know all the answers to Jeopardy. Nancy's talent for writing shone through in her short stories and poetry, capturing the hearts and imaginations of those fortunate enough to experience her work.
Surviving in addition to her husband are two children, Lori B. Sanders of Nîmes, France, and Nathan S. Sanders (Cindi), of Harrisburg; a step-grandson, Aeric Powley of Duncannon; a sister, Mary Ann Mansour (George) of DeWitt, Michigan; a sister-in-law, Belle Rogers of Papillion, Nebraska; three nieces, Alicia, Barbara, and Rebecca; a nephew, Philip, and many extended family members.
Nancy was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, Dr. Jack D. Rogers.
A funeral service to honor the life of Nancy will be held 10 a.m. Friday, September 13, at St. John’s-Newberry U.M.C., 2101 Newberry St. Williamsport, with her nephew, the Rev. Monte McClain and Rev. Dr. Lori Betsworth, co-officiating. A viewing will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at Sanders Mortuary, 821 Diamond St., Williamsport.
The family will provide flowers and suggest memorial contributions to the Susquehanna Health Foundation c/o the Nathan Scott Sanders Endowment Fund for cancer education and equipment, 1001 Grampian Blvd., Williamsport, PA 17701.
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