ROCKWOOD – Barbara Lynn Sanders, 75, passed away on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at Barnes Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, Missouri.

Barbara was born on July 8, 1949, in Murphysboro, IL, the daughter of William R. and Cora M. (Hornbostel) Guetersloh. She married Michael Sanders on November 17, 2007, in Rockwood, IL. Barbara was a retired Cosmetologist and a member of Christ Lutheran Church, Jacob, IL.

Barbara lived a full and vibrant life and was a woman of many talents. She made the best pecan pie and her chicken & dumplings were always the highlight of family gatherings. She also had a green thumb and loved gardening. She enjoyed traveling, riding her motorcycle, seeing new places and meeting new people. Above all, Barb found her greatest joy in spending time with family and friends.

Barbara was a kind and generous person, the heart and soul of her family. Her love and compassion were felt by everyone who knew her, and she had a way of making people feel special and cared for. She will forever be missed and always remembered.

Barbara is survived by her husband Michael Sanders of Rockwood, IL, her children: Tamora (Daniel) McIntosh of Pomona, IL, Randall (Julia) Richardson of St. Charles, MO, Angelia (Buddy) Eskew of Panama City, FL; her step children: Angela (Robert) Dilday of Rockwood, IL, Mellany (Dan) Kieser of Smithton, IL, Joe (Cathy) Sanders of Rockwood, IL; her 8 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, 6 step grandchildren, 2 step great grandchildren, and her brother, Reverend Ralph (Susie) Guetersloh of Branson, MO.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Ruby Renner, brothers, Gerald and Howard Guetersloh; and a step grandson, John Michael Dilday.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 2:00 pm, at Wilson's Funeral Home, Ava, IL, with Rev. Gunner Campbell officiating. Visitation will be on Saturday, November 23, 2024, where friends may call from 1:00 pm until the time of service at the funeral home. A gathering will follow at First Baptist Church in Ava, IL. The preferred Form of Remembrance is to the Susan B. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation and can be mail to Wilson's Funeral Home, PO Box 277, Ava, IL 62907.