Nancy Sanders

Nancy Joan Sanders, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2024, at the age of 81, surrounded by her loving family. Nancy was born on October 7, 1942, in Bellingham, Washington, to Henry and Edith (Duiff) VanderVeen.

A graduate of Lynden High School in 1961, Nancy pursued her passion for faith and education at Northwestern Bible College in Washington. It was in Seattle that she met her husband, David Sanders, while he was serving in the U.S. Navy. They married shortly after and spent the first months of their marriage apart, as David served on the West Pac 7th Fleet for 10 months.

In 1974, the couple moved to Beggs, Oklahoma, where Nancy embraced a life of hard work and dedication. Known for her humble, quiet, and reserved nature, she was always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. Nancy had a remarkable green thumb, cultivating beautiful flower beds filled with daffodils and proudly sharing the fruits of her labor. Whether canning her garden's tomatoes and potatoes or crafting delicious cobblers from freshly picked blackberries and peaches, her culinary talents brought joy to all who visited.

Nancy's warmth and kindness created lasting memories for her family and friends. Her guests always left with a little something special, a reminder of her generous spirit. Her family will deeply miss their conversations and the simple moments of companionship they shared.

Nancy is survived by her devoted husband, David Sanders, of Beggs, Oklahoma; her son, David Sanders Jr. of Catoosa, Oklahoma; her daughter, Rebecca Godefrin of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; and her son, Johnathon Sanders of Glenpool, Oklahoma. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Miranda Sanders, Tiana Sanders, Calista Smith, and Ashlyn Smith-Sanders. She is further survived by her siblings: Betty Honrud of Custer, Washington, Fred VanderVeen, and Marilyn Darcy of Custer, Washington.

Nancy will be laid to rest at Fort Gibson National Cemetery, where her memory will continue to inspire those who loved her. As we remember her gentle spirit and unwavering kindness, we celebrate the beautiful legacy she leaves behind

Arrangements are entrusted to Schaudt Glenpool-Bixby Funeral Service & Cremation Care Centers, 1329 East 151st Street, Glenpool, OK 74033. Family and friends may leave kind words of comfort, special memories and condolences to the family online at www.schaudtfuneralservice.com