Lena M. Sanders' Obituary
On Saturday, July 26, 2024, our beloved Mother, Grandmother, Sister, and Friend, Lena Marie Sanders, gracefully departed this earthly life to embrace life eternal. Born on May 2, 1931, in Charleston, Mississippi, alongside her twin brother, Leonard, she brought immense joy to her parents, Bowser and Martha Lake.
Lena’s journey unfolded across two states: from her early days in Charleston, MS, where she completed her formal education, to her later years in Muskegon, MI, where she resided until her transition.
In Muskegon, Lena began her journey with Christ within the walls of John Wesley A.M.E. Church, guided by the late Rev. Moses J. Jones. Marriage blessed her life when she wed the late John L. Lane, and five children were born to this union. She later met and married the late Charles (Snow) Sanders.
Lena’s legacy extended beyond family ties. She lent her culinary talents to various establishments, leaving her mark as a cook at Carmen’s Café (when it graced the Medical Arts Center) and The Downtowner Inn. Her final culinary chapter unfolded at The Hearthstone, where she retired. Cooking was more than a profession for Lena—it was her passion. Particularly on Sundays (and other days, too), as she prepared hearty meals for her loved ones, infusing each dish with love and tradition, her kitchen echoed with laughter, stories, and the comforting aroma of home-cooked goodness.
Lena’s heart overflowed with boundless love for her family, especially her cherished grandchildren. She stepped into the role of primary caretaker for many of them, leaving a permanent impact on their lives. Beyond the kitchen, Lena basked in simple pleasures; card games sparked her competitive spirit, bowling brought joy, and crossword puzzles kept her mind sharp. And who could forget her fishing expeditions - armed with a trusty 10-foot cane pole? Lena’s besties—those dear companions who shared laughter, secrets, and countless memories—held a special place in her heart. Their camaraderie illuminated her days.
As we bid farewell to Lena Marie Sanders, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life seasoned with love, resilience, and the flavors of shared meals. May her memory continue to warm our hearts, and may she find eternal peace in the embrace of eternity.
Lena leaves to cherish her life’s legacy, two sons, Darryl Lane and Dannie Lane, Sr. of Muskegon. Twelve grandchildren, a host of great-grandchildren. Four sisters, Alice Mae Smith and Rachel White of Indianapolis, IN., Gladys (Tommy Lee) Johnson of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Erma Barnes of Augusta, GA. A special God-daughter Belinda Crews. Two extraordinary friends, Minnie Ann Stegall, and Bobbie Davis. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other friends.
Her journey to the Father was preceded by her parents, husband, three daughters, six brothers, four sisters, and one granddaughter.
A Homegoing will be held on Monday, August 5, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Kingdom Embassy Covenant Church, 3025 Glenside Blvd., Muskegon, MI 49441. A viewing will be held from 10-11:00 AM at church. A viewing with the family will be held from 3-5:00 PM on Sunday, August 4, 2024, at The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 737 E Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442. She will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemfh.com.
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