Remembering Shirley Oliver Sanders

With much sadness, we share the passing of Shirley Oliver Sanders, former Vice President Alumnae II, on Jan. 11, in San Antonio. She was 89.

Mrs. Sanders was initiated March 12, 1953, at Lambda Chapter (Southwestern University) in Georgetown, Texas, where graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in history. She served as District President XI-G from 1978 to 1984 and Vice President Alumnae II from 1984 to 1990. She received the Certificate of Merit in 1980, the Honor Ring in 1984 and the Order of the Shield in 2003.

Mrs. Sanders and her husband of 63 years, Dr. Albert Sanders, had lived in San Antonio since 1966. She was a longtime member of the San Antonio, TX, Alumnae Chapter. She was also active in her church, the Medical Alliance, and her children's' schools, often assuming a leadership role.

She was preceded in death by her husband; their daughter, Jeanmarie; her parents, Gus and Genie Oliver; her brother, Dick Oliver; and son-in-law, Gerald W. Gribbons. She is survived by her children, Dr. James Sanders (Tricia), Mary Kay Gribbons, Rev. Stephen Sanders (Mary), and grandchildren, Luke (Emily), Jonathan, Nathaniel, Joseph, David, and James Sanders; Donald (Jeanette), K. Bates, McKie, and Bailey Gribbons; and a great grandson, Albert Sanders.

The Memorial Service will be 2 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024, at Alamo Heights United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Southwestern University, the University of Texas Medical Branch Shirley and Albert Sanders Presidential Scholarship, or Children’s Hospital of San Antonio.

Shirley was a dedicated leader and loyal sister. We are all grateful for her service.