Christopher John Anders

Christopher John "CJ" Anders, 45, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 10th at St. Joseph Medical Center and was escorted to KBR Memorial Home by McLean County Sheriff Department, Bloomington Police Department, Normal Police Department, and Illinois State Police.

With over 25 years of service, CJ began his career at McLean County Detention Facility by working in maintenance and was promoted to Correctional Officer in 1994. CJ was recognized multiple times as Correctional Officer of the Month, earned Authorized Decoration Awards, and was highly regarded by coworkers and inmates alike.

A loyal Chicago Bears fan, CJ began his football career playing for the Bloomington Knockers Youth Football Program where he served as Captain of his team in 1984. CJ led his team as quarterback at Bloomington High School and was recognized as Homecoming King in 1988.

As a beloved family leader, CJ is survived by daughters, Sierra (Shawntelle Thornton) and Shelby (Shannon Hill); parents Curtis (Ruthie) Anders and Stephanie (Frank) Anders-Butcher; grandparents Jo and Hellen Allen; siblings Corey (Elisa) Anders, Kendall (Tommy) Miles; godmothers Ann Harris and Carol Lyle; godfathers Paul Carther and Dallas Lyle; extended family Tina Guy, Tracey Richardson, Lon (Anita) Richardson, Vidal Richardson, Andre Richardson, and Frank Butcher, Jr.; and many endearing aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. CJ was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Clarence and Mary Lawry.

A celebration of CJ's life officiated by Reverend Frank L. McSwain, Sr. will be held at Mount Pisgah Baptist Church on Saturday, March 19th. "Woodhill's Finest," CJ, will be laid to rest in Evergreen Memorial Cemetery with a reception to follow.

CJ's legacy can be felt most through the smiles and laughter of his daughters, Sierra (25) and Shelby (10 months). Memorial accounts have been established for them at Illinois State University for Sierra Anders and Chase Bank for Shelby Anders.