Saundra R. Rule

Saundra Reveille Witherspoon Rule was born August 6, 1939 to the proud parents, Wesley B. Witherspoon and Cleadith Mae Jones-Witherspoon. She was the oldest of 5 (live birth) siblings. She took that role very seriously as the eldest and was an excellent role model for the younger ones. Saundra accepted Christ at an early age. She graduated from Lincoln Sr High School in June 1957 and went on to SIU-Edwardsville where she received her degree in Elementary Education and later returned to receive her Masters Degree with honors. Saundra married Marvin Rule in mid 60's, who preceded her in death. Saundra held high standards for herself and expected the same from others.

HER CALLING

Saundra began her teaching career at Golden Garden Elementary School. She immersed herself in educating children and made it fun. She had a way of bringing out the best in her students, beginning with building confidence and self esteem. She made you feel like you could do anything! Saundra later moved to several other schools in District 189 and left her mark on every school and child. Saundra was extremely dedicated to providing a good education to all student, she became the spokesperson for her peers at School District 189. She fought for education excellence until her retirement. Saundra taught for over 30 years. Her students still remember and cherish her.

HER DEVOTION TO GOD

Saundra was a devout Christian and very active at First Baptist Church of Golden Garden. She served as an usher, choir member and Sunday school teacher. Whenever she could be of service, she was there with a willingness to help. She was as dedicated to teaching Gods word as much as she was teaching in her classroom. She made certain each Sunday every class was prepared and well thought out for great Bible discussions. She supported and respected every Pastor she served under. After leaving First Baptist Church of Golden Garden, she became a member and Mother at The Faith House in OFallon, IL. After relocating to Atlanta GA to be closer to family she became a dedicated member of Salem Baptist Church until she could no longer attend. However, her love for God never faltered. She lived a Christlike life until the day He called her home.

HER LOVE OF COMMUNITY

Soror Rule was a member of Sigma Gamma Rho - Alpha Upsilon Sigma Chapter and (founding member) of Gamma Beta (undergrad chapter). She was inducted on 7/29/1961. She loved her Blue and Gold. Saundra had a heart for service and being a part of this great organization allowed her the opportunity to reach and do even more for others. She adored this sisterhood. Saundra inspired her nieces and great-nieces to make their debut to society with Sigma Gamma Rho Debutant Cotillion. This made her very proud. She along with her sisterhood have mentored and provided scholarships for numerous young ladies who since have become some of the most celebrated women of our time. You would often find her serving and checking in on some of her elderly Sorors.

HER LOVE FOR FAMILY & FRIENDS

Saundra was the oldest of five siblings. She was a true leader and protector. She made sure everyone in her family had everything they needed. She was a good listener and full of wisdom. Her soft calming voice was very soothing and comforting. Saundra never physically gave birth, however, her nieces and nephews were her own. She took us to movies, Ice Capades, amusement parks, shopping and much more. Some of our best memories were spending the night with her enjoying her home cooked snacks. Saundra loved cooking. She put her heart and soul in her food and you could tell. One of her favorite sides to make was baked apples and they complimented every meal. Saundra knitted and crocheted in her spare time while watching recorded episodes of "The Price is Right". One tradition of hers was to make a blanket for each newborn in the family. This was always the best gift because it was made with love. Our children still cherish them. When our family lost our mother and grandmother Cleadith, Saundra stepped up to be the family's matriarch. She took that role very serious and would make sure our family was always together on holidays and often played peacemaker among family members. She was a strong woman and the rock to the Witherspoon family.

SUNSET

Saundra received her wings on August 12, 2022 at 3:05am at Arbor Terrace Assisted Living after a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease. She fought the good fight, she finished the race, she kept the faith. And now there is a crown of righteousness in store for her. Servant well done!!!

She will be forever loved and missed by her sister, Lenora Eunice Crockett; brother, Wesley B. Witherspoon Jr. (Rosie); Nieces/Nephews, Cheryl Gordon (Cornell), Keith Crockett, Kimberly Blow (Paul), Cynthia Phelps (Demone), Ronald Houston Jr. (Tammy), Joanna Witherspoon, Corey Houston (Janae), Doug Robbins, Wesley B. Witherspoon III ( Frieda), Thaddeus "TJ"Houston; Godson, Kevin Anderson and a host of cousins, great and great-great nieces and nephews; friends and every life she's touched on her journey!

Preceded her in death; husband, Marvin Rule; parents, Wesley B Witherspoon Sr. and Cleadith Mae Witherspoon; brother, Edward Witherspoon; and sisters Gloria Jean Witherspoon and Mary Ann Houston.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 23, 2022, from 5 - 9pm at Eternal Hills Funeral Home. Funeral services will be on Wednesday, August 24, 2022, at 12:00 pm in the Eternal Hills Funeral Home Chapel. Entombment will follow at Eternal Hills Memory Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Alzheimer's Association, https://act.alz.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=digital_wallet_donations&df_id=50640.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.eternalhillsfuneralhome.com for the Rule family.