John W. Sanders

ROCKFORD – John W. "Big John" Sanders, age 72, of Rockford peacefully departed this earthly life on Thursday, July 27, 2017 at his home surrounded by family after a long time illness. Born in Glendora, MS on April 10, 1945 to George Sanders Jr. and Lucia Williams (Campbell).

John leaves to cherish many loving memories; wife, Thelma Sanders; sons, James Sanders, of Alton, IL Terry (Kathleen) Smith, Johnny (Marsha) Smith and Marcus (Patrice) Smith all of Rockford; daughters, Jessica Martin of Jackson, TN and Angela Smith of Rockford; brothers, Joseph Williams of Jacksonville, IL and Luke Williams of Alton, IL; sisters, Alice Pigee, Martha Brown, Delores (Nathaniel) Wheeler, Ophelia Jackson, Ernestine Goree and Mary Williams all of Alton, IL;special aunt, Josie Williams; special friends, Gale Patterson and Gene Valentine; a host of grandchildren and nieces & nephews. He is predeceased by his parents; 2 brothers; and a sister.

Celebration of Life Memorial to be held on Saturday August 5, 2017 at 12:00 noon at Greater New Hope Baptist Church, 4615 Auburn Street, Rockford. Cremation rites accorded. Christenson Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. Repast to follow at the family's home. Memorials to the family.

A special Thank You to Serenity Hospice for their excellent care and support.

w ww.rockfordfunerals.com

Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free,
I'm following the path God laid for me.
I took his hand when I heard his call,
I turned my back and left it all.
I could not stay another day,
To laugh, to love, to work, to play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way,
I've found that peace at the close of the day.
If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss,
Ah yes, these things I too will miss.
Be not burdened with times of sorrow,
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My Life's been full, I savored much,
Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch,
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief,
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me,
God wanted me now, He set me free.