Shirley J. Sanders

     Shirley Jean (Blair) Sanders passed away peacefully on February 24, 2024 after a long illness. She was born to George and Genevieve (White) Blair on September 6, 1934 in Massena, NY. She graduated from Massena High School in 1953 and married her husband Donald in 1958. They settled in Syracuse, NY where she resided for 55 years before retiring to Florida and Arizona.

        Shirley is predeceased by her husband of 52 years, Donald R. Sanders and son, Joel A. Sanders. She is survived by her daughter, Julie Sanders of Surprise, AZ, son Jerry (Sandra) Sanders of Lake Mary, FL, her grandchildren, Megan Sanders and Jake Sanders, her brother, Kenneth Blair, fur grands - Vinny and Mack and many, many friends.

        She dedicated her life to her family as a wife, mother, Nana and friend. Her zest for life was infectious, and her spunky spirit was evident in everything she did. Her resilience and positive outlook on life was unwavering, inspiring to all who knew her. Shirley embraced every moment with a twinkle in her eye and her signature red lipstick. She loved to travel, read and of course, hit the casino. She enjoyed fashion and worked at Addis & Dey Brothers for many years before retiring to the southern US.

        Family, friends and others whose lives Shirley touched are invited to Eaton-Tubbs Fayetteville Chapel, 7191 E Genesee St, Fayetteville, NY 13066. Calling hours, Thursday, March 21, from 2 to 4pm.  Funeral Service are Friday, March 22 at 10am at the funeral home. Burial will be in Onondaga Valley Cemetery.

        In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of the Valley - https://hov.org/donate.