Edward "Gene" Sanders

Edward Eugene “Gene” Sanders, a World War II Veteran of Carterville, Illinois, passed peacefully in his sleep, after an evening surrounded by family in Tucson, Arizona, on September 10, 2022, at the age of 98.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 8, 2022, at Crainville Baptist Church, with reflections by his family. Burial with military rites will be in Rosehill Cemetery in Marion. Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., Saturday at the church.

Gene was born June 23, 1924, to Lena and Frank Sanders in Marion, Illinois. An only child, Gene was predeceased by both of his parents and his loving wife of 69 years, Lillian Sanders, on September 23, 2011.

Gene is survived by: his daughter, Brenda Sanders Woody, her husband Curt; grandchildren, Jessica Castillo, Gilbert Castillo, Mitchell Woody, and his great grandson, Braxten Castillo.

Gene proudly served his country in World War II, only eight months after marrying his bride, Lillian, in 1942. He was assigned to the 33rd infantry division, Company 130 D, as a machine gunner. Gene returned home January 11, 1946. Upon his return Gene found work as a skilled electrician, working for Southern Illinois University for the majority of his career.

He and Lillian welcomed their only daughter, Brenda, December 15, 1961. Gene was a doting, gentle, and selfless father who worked tirelessly to provide for his family. In 1989 he became a grandfather: a role that only heightened his kind and nurturing disposition.

He and Lillian were active members of Crainville Baptist church and enjoyed attending dances in their free time. Gene was also known for his sweet tooth, never turning down dessert- especially chocolate. Gene valued hard work and time with family. He could be found tending to his Southern Illinois property, scaling ladders and moving thousands of pounds of bricks up until the impressive age of 92. He moved to Tucson, Arizona to be closer to family after Lillian’s passing, where he spent invaluable time with those who loved him most. He will be most remembered for being a shining Christ-like example in every facet of his life.

Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville is in charge of arrangements. 

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