William M. Sanders

William M. Sanders, affectionately known as "Big Mal," passed away peacefully in his sleep on the morning of December 8, 2024, at Springfield Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center in Springfield, Pennsylvania. He was 76 years old. Born on May 8, 1948, in Chester, South Carolina, to the late Jaither Lee and Preston Harris, William was one of six boys. He was raised in Great Falls, South Carolina, where he formed cherished memories and looked forward to the town’s annual camp meetings. His early education was in Great Falls, but he continued his studies in Chester, Pennsylvania, after his family relocated there. William was a hardworking and dedicated man who spent many years employed at John Savoy and Night Owls. He took pride in his work and was known for his strong work ethic and talent for fixing things. William married the love of his life, Ida Sanders, with whom he shared a beautiful life. His family was his pride and joy, and he loved spending time with his grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Poppy” and teased him about his loud grunts. William’s hobbies reflected his vibrant and creative spirit. He was an avid card player, hosting weekly Pinochle games every Sunday. He also loved fishing, gardening, cooking, and cleaning. He was a talented dancer with a deep appreciation for music, William’s favorite color was dark brown, and he could often be found watching black-and-white cowboy movies and Western TV shows. A man of faith, William believed in God and lived his life guided by love, family, and community. He will be remembered for his gentle heart, his warm laugh, and his ability to bring joy to everyone he met. William is survived by his devoted wife, Ida Sanders; his children, Tarea Burrell, Michelle Sanders, William Sanders, and Lakeiya Hudson; his brothers Larry, Dennis, and Belvin; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his mother, Jaither Lee and his brothers, Bruce and James Sanders. A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 27, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Earl Foster Funeral Home. William will be laid to rest at Glenwood Memorial Gardens in Broomall, Pennsylvania. William “Big Mal” Sanders will forever be remembered for his unwavering love, his dedication to his family. 2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.[a] The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. The family of William M. Sanders would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Springfield Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center for their compassionate care during his final days. William's life was a testament to hard work, love, and faith. He leaves behind a legacy of devotion to his family and a passion for life’s simple joys, He will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

William M. Sanders

May 8, 1948 - December 8, 2024