John L. Sanders

John L. Sanders, age 66, of Rockford, Illinois passed away on Thursday, September 11, 2025 surrounded by his loving family after a short illness. He was born May 18, 1959 in Rockford, IL, the son of Thomas and Alice M. (Pickens) Sanders. John graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School, class of 1978. He was employed at Elco Textron and Northern Illinois Metal Finishings. John attended New Zion Church under Rev. Saulter and was baptized at an early age. John enjoyed fishing and archery. He played on a darts league for over 30 years and liked playing dominoes. He enjoyed barbequing and spending time with friends. John donated his money to the Illinois Lottery. Most of all, John adored spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

John is loved and missed by his children, Terrance (Kristine) Purifoy, Dominique (Robert) Wright, Jonquelle Sanders(Jamie Collier), Tiffany Sanders and Brittany "Nuk" Sanders (his favorite); grandchildren, Destiny Delgado, Alexis Purifoy, Amarie Wright, Montaz Jones, Nkiera Bernell-Hill, Janiya Sanders, Janelle Sanders, La'Mya Jones, Corde Jones, Tarvas Bernell-Hill, Jr., Lauryn Wright, Jayceon Bernell-Hill, Ariya Wright and Yasir "Kash" Bernell-Hill; great-grandchildren, Aaliyah and Avalai and special-great-granddaughter, Saryiah; brothers, Lester Sanders, Anthony Sanders and Allen Sanders; sister-in-law, Myrtle Sanders; mother of his children, Florence J. Purifoy; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins; special friend, Lucious Moton. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Sarah Teague, brothers Leon Sanders and Eugene Sanders, son-in-law Cordell Jones, special friends, Mike "Ice Mike" Cunningham, Leotis and John Laster, Frank Hempstead and Johnny Polk.

A special thank you to his special niece, Lashawna Shank and his aunt, Gladys King for their loving and compassionate care of John.

John was laid to rest on October 11, 2025 at Sunset Memorial Gardens.