Julia A. Sanders

Julia "Judy" A. (Vilkas) Sanders, 88, of Worcester died Sunday, November 9, 2008 in her home surrounded by her devoted and loving family. Her husband of sixty-eight years, William R. Sanders, died October 26, 2008.

She leaves five sons, George W. Sanders of Auburn, James R. Sanders of Chicago, IL., Thomas E. Sanders of Plattsburg, NY., Rev. William F. Sanders and Paul V. Sanders, both of Worcester; four daughters, Ann Marie Holland of Shrewsbury, Mary Jane Howard of Worcester, Julie A. Sanders-Welsh of Spencer, Rosemary Beaudoin of Rutland; eleven grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, two great great-grandchildren; a sister, Helen Lapensee of Worcester; and many nieces and nephews. She was born in Worcester, a daughter of Vincent and Anna (Palevicius) Vilkas and raised by foster parents, Bartholomew and Mary (Palevicius) Jurgelonis.

Mrs. Sanders was a homemaker whose life's work was raising her nine children. She graduated from Commerce High School. She was a member of St. Stephen Church and a longtime parish volunteer. "Judy" was also a longtime member of the Jolly Jill's Singing Group. Her joy and pleasure came from her husband and children and watching them grow. As a strong and faithful woman, she was the strength and guidance of her family and many friends. To her children, she was a "Mom" who had a prayer for every occasion.

The funeral will be held on Wednesday, November 12, from DIRSA-MORIN FUNERAL HOME, 298 Grafton St., with a Mass at 11:00 a.m. in St. Stephen Church, 357 Grafton St. Her son, the Rev. William F. Sanders will be the principal celebrant. Burial will be in Notre Dame Cemetery.

Calling hours in the funeral home are Tuesday, November 11, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Stephen School, 355 Grafton St., Worcester, MA 01604 or Television Ministry – TV Mass, 49 Elm St., Worcester, Ma 01609.

www.worcesterfuneral.com