Judith Ann “Judy” (Richardson) Sander, Stockton, KS, passed away on
November 16, 2021, at Solomon Valley Manor in Stockton, KS. She was born
on July 29, 1945, to Kenneth James and Florence June (Vest) Richardson
in Chadron, NE.
Judy’s father later remarried, and she was lucky enough to have
inherited a stepsister, Phyllis. They were like two peas in a pod
growing up. After the death of her father, she moved back to Stockton
where she graduated from high school.
Judy had four children: Kimberly, who passed at a young age,
William, who was still born, and then came along the light in her eyes
with Charles and Brian. She was a wonderful mother and would do anything
for her boys.
Judy was lucky enough to later marry the love of her life, George
Frederick Sander on May 20, 1978. Judy and George loved to go on trips
with Charlie and Brian and make memories when not busy working. During
this time, they had their first grandson, Keith, who spent much time
with them. Mostly causing mischief with George.
When she was 45 (1985), Judy was adopted by Dorrine Dix who had
three daughters (Janette, Janice, and Janine) who would become near and
dear to Judy.
During her life, she owned and operated Stockton Florist for many
years where flowers and ceramics became her passion while George kept
busy on the family farm. She later worked at Solomon Valley Manor as the
Activities Director which she loved, and later retired as a security
guard for many years at the correctional facilities in Stockton and
Norton, KS. It’s still hard to picture that last one, but believe it or
not, she was very respected in that job, and she was proud of that.
And when those grandboys (Keith, Dalton, Kyler, and Kolton) came,
boy did she spoil them. She took them places and made memories which
they will never forget. She would always say “these boys aren’t going to
forget me”. And she was correct. Those boys grew up and would do
anything for her. The bond they had was one of a kind.
Judy kept very active and was always on-the-go with her community
work. We would always say her best talent was the gift of gab, and my
goodness was she good at it. Just ask anyone who knew her if she ever
had a loss for words and I’d imagine they wouldn’t be able to. She was
involved with Sigma Phi ESA, VFW Auxiliary, and Rooks Co Health Center
Auxiliary. Earlier in life she was on the Economic Development Board, a
Cub Scout Leader for her boys, and kept involved with church, stepping
in wherever needed. She loved her daily meetings with her coffee group
after retirement came, her ESA and Auxiliary sisters, scrapbooking with
family and friends, and decorating houses at Christmastime. Some may say
she went overboard, but that was Judy. Most of all she loved her
family, especially her grandsons. She would continually brag about them,
even to strangers while shopping, and embarrass them. She also had many
adventures with the boys and was very involved in everything they did
growing up. She retired just to go on a family trip with Brian’s family
which goes to show just how important family was.
Judy was a faith-filled woman who dedicated her life to unity,
friendship, and service. She taught us by example how to serve and care
for one another. Her strong spirit and open heart made all who knew her
feel loved. Heaven has a new angel to watch over us. I’d imagine right
now, she’s sipping that Starbucks coffee and catching up with everyone
as well as watching over us.
Judy is survived by her sons, Charles Francis Sander and wife Marsha
of Stockton KS and Brian Sander and wife Trish of Plainville KS;
sisters, Janine Gilbert of Okoboji, IA and Janette LeRoy of Omaha, NE;
and four grandchildren, Charles “Keith” Sander (Jane), Dalton Sander,
Kyler Sander, and Kolton Sander.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Florence;
daughter Kimberly Kay Sander; son William James Sander; beloved husband
George; adopted mother, Dorrine Dix; sisters Phyllis Wahl and Janice
Clayton; and brother-in-law, Larry Gilbert.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, December 20, 2021, at
11AM at the funeral home in Stockton. There will be no public
visitation.
Memorials are suggested to VFW or VFW Auxiliary and may be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723 N 1st, Stockton, KS 67669.