Morgan Sanders

Morgan Sanders, 91, of Hutsonville, IL, passed away in the comfort of his home on Wednesday, July 3, 2024. Born on May 30, 1933, outside of West Union, IL, his life was a tapestry woven with love, service, and the joy of simple pleasures.

He was raised in rural West Union, the son of Everett & Bertha (Marlow) Sanders, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Nora, Ralph, and Ernestine, and by his in-laws, Dale and Leona Pruitt.

The bonds of family were deeply important to him, a value that was evident in the close relationships he maintained throughout his life. A pivotal moment came on Christmas 1956, when Morgan asked Marilyn S. Pruitt to marry him. Their marriage on April 12, 1958, blossomed into 66 years of shared happiness, a testament to their enduring love and commitment. Together, they raised a family that includes their children, Brian Sanders, Kim Mathias, and Anita and husband Todd Seaney. Morgan's joy multiplied with the arrival of nine grandchildren, Jason (Tori) Bachelor, Keshia Osmundson, Tiffany (Trenton) Clapp, Derek (Nicole) Seaney, Zachary (Emily) Sanders, Luke (Gabi) Mathias, Madison Mathias, Nashlynn (CJ) Williams, and Haley Sanders; and he deeply cherished his great-grandchildren, Avery, Harper, Bryndis, Evan, Emersyn, Sawyer, and Morgan.

Morgan's extended family also includes his "Brazilian grandson," Valmar Alves, who held a special place in his heart. His sister-in-law & brother-in-law, Linda & Harlan Newlin, along with brothers-in-law, Russell Pruitt and Richard Pruitt, and his special neighbors, Mr. & Mrs. Phillip Garner, Mr. & Mrs. Ken Parmenter, and Mr. & Mrs. Corey Mehler, also shared in the richness of Morgan's life. His beloved dog, Daisy, was a constant companion, bringing comfort and joy to his days.

Morgan's commitment to service was evident early on as he served his country as a medic in the U.S. Army in Panama. After his discharge, he returned home and worked as a farmhand for the Albert/Morgan Newlin family, a role he dedicated himself to until the age of 72. A jack of all trades, Morgan could fix anything and took particular pride in his woodworking and lawn mowing.

His love for whistling was well-known, with gospel tunes often gracing the lips of this joyful man. A faithful member of the West Union Christian Church for over six decades, Morgan's faith was a cornerstone of his life. He served as a deacon, and his role in making coffee every Sunday was a cherished ritual. His best friend, Bob Heleine, was instrumental in getting Morgan and his family involved in the church many years ago. His community engagement extended to the West Union American Legion Post #1130, where he was just two years shy of becoming a lifetime member. He also contributed to the Hutsonville Community Ruritan Club, where his wife, Marilyn, served as secretary.

In his leisure time, Morgan enjoyed traveling out West to visit Marilyn's brothers and watching his favorite game show, "Wheel of Fortune." He was a consummate jokester, once playfully convincing his sister to walk the remainder of the way home when she fell asleep during a drive!

As we take a step back and appreciate the fullness of his 91 years, we can clearly see that Morgan Sanders' life was a celebration of the simple joys and deep connections that give meaning to our days. His legacy will be remembered and cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know him until, by the grace of God, we see him again!

A time of visitation will be held from 12:00-2:00 p.m. on Monday, July 8th, at the Prust-Hosch Funeral Home in West Union, IL. Funeral services will immediately follow at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, with Pastor Joe Briseno officiating. For those unable to attend, a recording of the funeral will be available at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream following the service.

Burial will be in the Harrison Cemetery, where military honors will be conducted by the West Union American Legion Post #1130. Memorial contributions may be made to "St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital" to fight the war against childhood cancer. Memorial envelopes will be available at the funeral home.