Wanda Fay Sanders

Wanda Fay Sanders, 90, of Casa Grande, Arizona went home to be with her Lord on August 3rd, 2026. She passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loved ones. While she was small in stature, her presence could often be felt in the room – a straight forward, sometimes fiery personality wrapped in a beautiful smile and an infectious laugh that brought joy to those who encountered her.

Wanda dedicated her life not only to her children but others. In an effort to aid her parents, she left High School to care for two younger siblings, but later attained a GED. As a single mother in the ‘70s, she worked four jobs to support her four children. That passion for children grew later in her life as she attended night classes at Central Arizona College, earning an Associate of Arts degree, focusing on the Paraeducator Certificate Program. Her passion for children culminated in a 24-year career as a Special Education Paraprofessional Educator with the Casa Grande Elementary School District. It was a career that brought great joy and purpose to her life, treating each of her students as if they were her own.

Wanda loved hunting, fishing and just spending time in the outdoors. Although it had been some time since she was able, she often recalled cherished memories of those adventures with family and friends.

Wanda is survived by her children, Cindy Umbdenstock, Diana (Tom) Hussak, Brian (Tonya) Hipps, Linda (Mike) Jones, Patti (Jerry) Santee; 15 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren; her twin brother Delbert (Barbara) Winnett; her brothers Elbert (Marilyn) Winnett, Larry Winnett; and sister Brenda (Lee) Douthit.

Wanda is preceded in death by her parents, Bufford and Dexta Marie Winnett; her devoted husband of 46 years, Jewel Sanders; her sons, Jimmy Hipps, Daryl Sanders; and two brothers, Harold Winnett and Daryl Winnett.

The family will gather and celebrate Wanda’s life in a private memorial service.