Mona Sanders

(From Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Mona May (Callahan) Sanders, 93, of Republic, Missouri passed away peacefully on January 17, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on November 18, 1932, in Bellefonte, Arkansas to the union of the late William Gracen and Esther Ann (Stapleton) Callahan. On April 21, 1951, she was united in marriage to Vernon Lee Sanders sharing fifty years of wonderful memories until his passing on August 1, 2001. Sarcoxie, Missouri was her home for more than sixty years.

Mona's professional journey was marked by her loyalty and dedication. She was a respected employee at the former Economy Motel and Juvenile Shoe, both of Sarcoxie. A devout member of the Church of God's Grace, Mona's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She was also a dedicated member of the Order of Eastern Star for over fifty years, contributing to the organization's charitable work and fellowship. Her faith-filled life was an inspiration to all who knew her, and her gentle spirit was a comforting presence in the church community.

Beyond her work and church life, Mona's creative spirit shone brightly. She was an accomplished lyricist, penning many song lyrics that reflected her deep spirituality and the beauty she found in the world around her. Her love for music extended back to her youth when she sang gospel music on the radio, touching the hearts of listeners with her melodious voice.

Mona's interests were as varied as they were rich. She found solace in the tranquility of her garden, where she cultivated not only plants but beautiful roses. Her hands were rarely still, as she expressed her creativity through crocheting and sewing, crafting beautiful pieces that were both practical and artistic. Moreover, Mona was renowned for her baking pies, which she generously shared with friends in the community, spreading warmth and sweetness wherever she went.

Mona is survived by her children, Vernon Lee Sanders, Jr. of Sarcoxie, Martha Rhymer (Mark) of Sarcoxie, Marlene Sanders of Republic, and Joyce Hull (John) of Republic; grandchildren, Frances Shirley (Donald), Austin Rhymer (Jennifer), Daniel Rhymer (Malorie), Mason Hull, Izaiah Hull, Nicki D’Aquila (Chris) Erin Gaebe (Glenn) and Adam Hull; great-grandchildren, Jordan Sackett (Austin), Chloe Shirley, Preston Shirley, A.J. Rhymer, Paige Rhymer, Allie Rhymer, Brooklyn Ryhmer, Margaret Rhymer, Taylor Light, (Justin Light), Todd D’Aquila (Juliana), Alex Gaebe (Karissa), Austin Gaebe (Reagan), Ayden Gaebe (Andrea), Hayden Hull, Malachi Hull and Gabe Hull; great-great-grandchildren, Zachery Shirley, Waylon Shirley, Greyson Shirley, Emmerson Gaebe, Knox Gaebe, Oaklee Gaebe, Christopher Gaebe and Theodore D’Aquila; sister, Sybil Flippo and daughter-in-law, Missy Sanders; brother-in-law, Gene Davis and sister-law, Mary Caroline Callahan.

She was preceded in death by her husband; son, Doug Sanders; grandson, Colton Hull; siblings Anita G. Avery, Helen Joyce Davis, James “Jim” Callahan; William Gene “Bill” Callahan; and brother-in-law, Sam Flippo.

Funeral services for Mrs. Sanders are 2:00 p.m. Thursday, January 22, 2026, at Church of God’s Grace in Sarcoxie, with Pastor James Yost officiating. Burial will follow at Sarcoxie Cemetery. Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are Austin Rhymer, Daniel Rhymer, Mason Hull, Izaiah Hull, A.J. Rhymer and Adam Hull. Honorary pallbearers will be Vernon Lee Sanders, Jr. and Mark Rhymer. Visitation will be 1:00 p.m. prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Sarcoxie Senior Center or Church of God’s Grace in care of the funeral home. On-line condolences may be sent to the family through our website www.housh-goodwinfuneralhome.com.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Housh-Goodwin Funeral Home, Sarcoxie, Missouri.