Obituary of James Earl Sanders

Of Clio, age 85, died Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at Genesys Regional Medical Center. The funeral service will take place 11:00am, Monday, November 30, 2009 at the Our Savior Lutheran Church in Flint. Pastor Randy Schultz will officiate. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery with Graveside Military Honors conducted by the American Legion Post #158. Family will receive friends on Sunday from 1:00pm until 4:00pm and 6:00pm until 8:00pm. Those desiring may direct memorial contributions to the Disabled American Veterans. Envelopes are available at the funeral home and church. James was born November 7, 1924 in Marked Tree, Arkansas the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jerry and May (Raines) Sanders and then moved to Kennett, Missouri. Jim served overseas in the United States Army during World War II, where he was wounded and awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. Jim returned to Kennett where he met and married his wife of 52 years, Velva Frances Collins, who preceded him in death in 2003. Jim moved his family to Michigan in the early 1950Aaas. Jim was employed by Fisher Body Coldwater Rd until he retired in the late 70Aaas and was a member of UAW Local 326. Jim was also Post Commander of Leo R Crow VFW Post 8236 in Mt Morris. He was also a member of his church for over 45 years. Jim and Joy (Smithingell) were married in 2004; Joy was a great comfort to Jim. James is survived by wife, Joy; two daughters, Sandra (Gary) Walling and Debra Edgar; two sons, James (Valerie) Sanders and Earl Sanders; two sisters, Alice (Paul) Petty and Joyce (Raymond) Powell; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, and special family friend Rosemary Goldsworthy. James was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, one sister, and wife, Frances.