Robert Neal Sanders

Robert Neal Sanders, 79, of Du Quoin, passed away at 11:15 a.m., Friday, April 19, 2013 at his residence.

Robert had been a welder. He was of the Pentecostal faith. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran of the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He had served for 22 years in the Air Force and retired as a Staff Sergeant in 1971. He was a member of the V.F.W., Eagles and American Legion.

He was born June 25, 1933 at Christopher, Ill., the son of Guy and Ada (Wallace) Sanders.

He married Jo Ann Easley on Oct. 15, 1959 at Oklahoma and she preceded him in death on July 15, 1994.

He is survived by his significant other - June Ralston of Du Quoin, two sons - Danney Findley and fiancee Tammy of Cape Coral, Fla. and David Sanders and fiancee Cherie of Du Quoin, three daughters - Donna McPheron and fiance Sam of Jackson, Tenn., Diana Melvin and husband Vernon of Du Quoin and Doreen Eggemeyer of Walsh, Ill., one brother - Lester Sanders of Johnston City, Ill., 13 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, two brothers - Loren Sanders and Sylvester Sanders and two grandchildren - Jamie Marie Eggemeyer and Ryan Ray Findley.

Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m., Monday, April 22, 2013 at the Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin.

Burial will be at a later date at the Zeigler Cemetery at Zeigler, Ill. with military graveside rites being conducted.

Friends may make memorials to the American Cancer Society or St. Jude Children's Hospital and will be accepted at the funeral home.

For additional information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.searbyfuneralhomes.com.