Sammy Gene "Sam" Sanderson, passed away on December 31, 2025. By his side sat Sue B. Sanderson, his beloved wife of almost 75 years, and two of his favorite caregivers.

Sam was born to Mary Katherine and Fred M Sanderson  in Orrick, Missouri, on November 29, 1930. He graduated from Orrick High School. An only child, Sam developed extremely close relationships with his cousins.

Sam and Sue married on April 7, 1951, in Orrick. They first lived in Kansas City. In 1962, Sam and Sue moved to Springfield, where he continued his banking career with Mercantile Bank. He finished his career as a commercial lender at Great Southern Bank.

Sam always wore a smile and loved a good joke. He enjoyed his many friends and has far too many escapades to recite.

Sam is survived by Sue, his children, Alan (Deb), and Missi Joplin (BJ), six granddaughters (Lyndsey Sanderson-Rogers, Katherine Callahan, Abbey Thelen, Maddy Joplin, Ellie Joplin, and Anna Joplin), and five great-grandchildren (Noah Phelps, Luke Phelps, Louie Gene Callahan, Calvin Thelen and Ellie Thelen). Sam is also survived by an extended family in and around Orrick.

Sam was predeceased by his parents and several close aunts and cousins.

There will be a graveside service at Maple Park Cemetery Tuesday, January 6 at 2:00.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Tina, Amada Senior Care (especially Teresa), Lacy, and the Seasons Hospice Team for their compassionate care and support in Sam's last weeks.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.