DICK M. SANDERS

Dick M. Sanders, 93, of Morristown N.J., passed away on Friday, July 19, 2024.
He was born on Nov. 28, 1930, in Purdy; the son of Hazel and Fred Sanders.
He grew up in Barry County and his love for this area never wavered. It was his honor to serve the citizens of the county as Northern Commissioner of the County Court from 1974-1978. He was later elected to the office of Circuit Clerk/Recorder of Deeds where he served until his retirement in 2002.
After graduating as salutatorian of the Butterfield High School class of 1948, he joined the United States Air Force in 1950, serving primarily in England and with the special occupation forces in Germany.
On June 22, 1957, he married Wanda Swindell and they purchased acreage outside of Monett where they raised their family.
After his retirement, they moved to Willard where he was active in the community and raised an impressive garden each year. In 2017, the couple moved to Morristown, N.J. to be near family.
He served as a church deacon and was a life member of the Monett American Legion and VFW and Lions Club member at Monett and Willard. Inspired by his grandmother, he was a proud Cherokee and supported many Native American causes.
He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Wanda; two daughters, Nita (Andy) Crighton of Morristown, N.J. and Marsha (Richard) Tudor of Morgantown, W.Va.; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren and another great-granddaughter on the way; one sister, Alene (Gene) Swadley of Cassville; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his son Mike; his parents; and six siblings.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Wilson Griffin Funeral Home in Ash Grove.