Gail Anne Sanders (1967-2020)

Gail Anne Sanders, 53, of Richland, WA went into the presence of Jesus on October 23, 2020, about one year after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

Gail, born on August 1, 1967, was the first daughter and second of four children born to Patricia and Charles Sanders while living in Richland, WA. Gail was preceded in death by her brother, Mark Sanders (1983) and mother, Patricia Sanders (1997). Surviving family members include her father and step-mother, Charles and Shirley Sanders of Loveland, CO, her brother and wife, Christopher and Tiffany Sanders and their children, Lauren, Anna and Mary from Snohomish, WA and her sister and husband Kim and Dan Olsen and their children, Rachel, Natalie and Mark from Fort Collins, CO. Gail is also survived by her dear friend and sister in Christ, Gay Fitzgibbons of Richland, as well as many ‘friends turned family’, all of whom she treasured.

Gail was a graduate of Hanford High school, Richland, WA. She received a B.S. degree from Central Washington University in computer science and a M.S. degree in computer science from Oregon State University. Returning to the Tri-cities, Gail taught at Columbia Basin Community College for several years. Gail and her father started a book selling business ‘Gail’s Books’ on the internet in 1995 which Gail took over a few years later and ran just until her death. As her business grew, she began filling her house with up to 20,000 books. The most important book in her life was The Bible, of which she studied and taught to a local neighborhood class as well as several Sunday school classes for many years. ‘Auntie Gail’ also faithfully read to many people as a way of showing love and service.

Gail lived a godly life dedicated to a fresh and continuous relationship with Jesus Christ. She never wavered since the time she first met Jesus at seven years of age. Gail was generous with her time and always ready to help with projects and chores, or by listening and praying. She chose to find joy in even the smallest things. She made the world within her reach vibrant and interesting. Gail will be deeply missed.

Over the past year, Gail’s amazing neighbors, friends and church community surrounded her with a wonderful support system. Chris and Tiff lived with Gail for the last ten days of her life. During this time there was a steady stream of visits from her closest friends. They stayed for hours and many visited daily. Gail and her family were blessed by the generosity and love of her community. Her family would like to sincerely thank everyone for their service to Gail during this difficult time. We are grateful for the wonderful, supportive staff at Chaplaincy Healthcare. Her last days with us were a true testimony to the Body of Christ. Jesus bless you, Gail. We’ll see you in the morning.