Richard S. Sanders

Richard S. Sanders, 88, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026, at his home in Hillsdale, Illinois. He was surrounded by the love of those who cared for him, following complications from a stroke.

Richard was born January 14,1938, to William Chester and Fern Celeste (Evans) Sanders. He married Nancy L. Thomas on December 30, 1960. They later divorced. This union produced four children.

He served his country from 1960-1963 in the United States Army as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division and was a Vietnam veteran. His military service taught him resilience and determination that he carried into everything he did.

For 46 years, Richard shared his life with his devoted partner, Cynthia Glee May. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering commitment. During his illness, she lovingly cared for him with extraordinary strength and devotion.

Glee came into the relationship with three of her own children. Each of whom he loved as his own. Glee and Richard raised the youngest daughter as their own.

Richard spent some time farming, owning and operating a Machine Shop and fixing up old houses. Richard and Glee owned and operated the Pink Pony in Erie, Illinois for several years. He enjoyed spending his time tinkering with old cars, repairing and collecting watches, searching for unique coins, and simply being outdoors. He had a curious mind and never lost his appreciation for learning new things - even enjoying adventures in the virtual world of World of Warcraft. He was an avid Star Trek fan and passed this love on to his granddaughter Chloe. Whether he was working with his hands or sharing stories, Richard found joy in the simple things and the people around him.

He is survived by his devoted partner, Cynthia Glee May; his daughters, Laura (John) Olivia, Nora Jean Sanders, Shelly (Kris) Warren, Amanda (Russ) Bos; son, Aron Buttram; grandchildren, Miguel Olivia, Juan Olivia, Matthew Olivia, Ryan (Jordan) Sanders, Cameron Sanders, Cassidy (Drew) Mendoza, Kaysey (Zachary Pierce) Bos, Chloe G. Bos, Brandon Warren, Austin (Chelsey Las) Warren, Alayna Buttram and Ellie Warren; great-grandchildren, Kali Olivia-Farrell, Nathaniel Olivia-Wyckoff, Skylunn Oliva, Charlie Olivia, Hudson Mendoza, Charleigh Lindsey, Stella Warren, Macie Warren, and Freya Warren; and siblings, Grace A. Garner, Betty J. Burch, Earl (Mary) Sanders and Roger A.L. Sanders.

Richard was preceded in death by two sons, Richie and Adam Sanders; his parents, William and Fern; siblings, William E. Sanders, Delores F. Davis, Hazel I. Akers, Mary L. Schmidt, John L. Sanders, Robert L. Sanders, Anna Hipkins, Arthur F. Sanders, and Edward “Tommy” Sanders; his friend and coffee- drinking partner, Lesley Dean Plunkett; and extended family and friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Richard's family finds comfort in knowing he is at peace and reunited with those who went before him. His legacy is one of loyalty, quiet strength, generosity, and the enduring belief that family is defined not only by blood, but by love, commitment, and the lives we choose to share.

In accordance with Richard's wishes, cremation will take place at Trimble Crematory, Moline, under the direction of Cremation Society of the Quad Cities, and no formal services will be held. His family asks that he be remembered through simple acts of kindness, time spent with loved ones, and appreciation for life's everyday moments. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for a fund to be established in Richard’s memory.

Glee and Amanda would like to thank the extraordinary team at Compassus Hospice for their care and compassion given Richard and our family. During one of the most difficult times in our lives, you treated him with dignity, respect, and genuine kindness. You not only cared for Richard, but you also supported us with patience, guidance, and understanding.

Your presence brought comfort when we needed it most, and we will never forget the gentleness and grace you showed every step of the way. Thank you for helping Richard pass peacefully and for reminding us that we were never alone.

Condolences may be shared at CremationQC.com.