Shirley B. Sanders, age 86, passed away Sunday, March 24, 2024 at the Sanctuary Hospice House. She was born January 14, 1938 in Lee County to Marvin and Agnes Parker Harris. On February 11, 1956, she married Dewey Sanders and they enjoyed 49 years together before his passing in 2005. Shirley had a strong work ethic and began her varied careers at a young age. She worked as a seamstress in the garment industry and was later employed a sales clerk for Shainberg’s Department Store in Tupelo as well as the Piomingo Market. Shirley’s favorite title was that of caregiver for children in her home. She was a dedicated member of the Mooreville-Eggville Volunteer Fire Department and was known to go out on calls and hold her own alongside the men. She was also a member of Hebron Church. Shirley loved the outdoors. In her younger days she enjoyed camping and flower gardening. She also was a talented quilt maker, loved to read, and work crossword puzzles; however, her greatest joy came from treasured time spent with her family.
Shirley leaves behind two children, Sherry Brock (Tim) and Ty Sanders, all of Saltillo; three grandchildren, Christy Morris (Richard) of Etta, Kayla Furr (Thomas) of North Carolina, and Curtis Brock of Saltillo; seven great-grandchildren, Mallie, Emma Cate, Stella, John Marlin, Peyton, Ella, and Easton; four sisters, Patsy Cortez, Arvy Powell (Bubba), Donna Rodgers (Jerry), and Linda Childers; and a host of nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dewey; her step-mother, Jessie Harris; an infant daughter, Deborah; her sister, Ruth Harris; a brother, Doyle Harris; and a brother-in-law, Gil Cortez.
Visitation will be 5 until 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at Pegues, Tupelo.
Services celebrating Shirley’s memory will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Jefferson Street Chapel of Pegues with Rev. Tim Green officiating and special music provided by Kevin Russell. Burial will be in Eggville Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Curtis Brock, Easton Brock, Richard Morris, John Marlin Morgan, Keith Sanders, and Derek Cortex.
Members of the Mooreville-Eggville Volunteer Fire Department will serve as honorary pallbearers.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Sanctuary Hospice House, PO Box 2177, Tupelo MS 38803.
