Gwendolyn Ann Sanders

Gwendolyn Ann (January) Sanders (the original G.G., a.k.a. "Grandma Gwen") was born in Waukegan, IL on May 12th, 1955 to the union of Benjamin and Susie January. She confessed a hope in and accepted Christ at an early age. Gwen was a 1973 graduate of Zion Benton Township High School, Zion IL. Gwen was united in marriage to Danny Ray Sanders (now deceased) and during this union three beautiful girls were born: Courtney R. Curry (Nathaniel Richardson, Jr.), of Gurnee, IL, Clarissa N. Turnipseed, of Gilberts, IL, and Chloe D. Simpson of St. Louis, Missouri.

Gwen began her lifelong career at Illinois Bell (now known as AT&T) as a telephone operator. She held various positions and continued her employment with this company for 30+ years until her retirement as a dispatcher.

Gwen enjoyed many things such as studying the Bible, crocheting, maintaining her house plants, and watching Andy Griffith on a CONTINUOUS loop. Gwen always loved to sing even though she admittedly could not hold or find a note. You could always count on Gwen to have a stash of Bazooka gum and an endless supply of Lifesaver peppermints, Payday candy bars, Twizzlers and Werther's original candies. Her all time favorite snack was homemade popcorn with LOTS of butter and salt with a glass of freshly made lemonade nearby. While petite in stature her presence loomed large and in charge. She was known for her shoe collection, sweet potato pies, potato salad, and rum cakes. Her greatest pride and joy was her daughters and grandchildren.

Gwen was preceded in death by her parents (Benjamin and Susie January), sister (Lisa January), Granddaughter (Cassidy Turnipseed), and her precious but feisty dog (Domino).

On December 7, 2023 the Lord called Gwen home during the early morning hours. Her daughters will always cherish her memory and celebrate her life along with her brother Benjamin Harris, her seven grandchildren: Paris, Nadia & Xavier Curry, Noah & Elijah Turnipseed, and Lelend & Bishop Simpson; Three God-Children she absolutely adored, Renee White (now deceased), Warren Peters, and John C. Taylor, III; Two childhood sister best friends: Margie Moore and Delilie Jones and a host of nieces, nephews, family members, and friends. God, we thank You for the life of Gwendolyn Ann (January) Sanders.

A Celebration of her Life will be held on Friday, December 15, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 2500 30th Street, Zion, IL.  Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m.  Interment will take place at Mt. Olivet Memorial Park, Zion, IL.