Jimmy "Jim" Sanders

Jimmy Edgar "Jim" Sanders, 86, of Topeka passed away on October 22, 2025, at his home from complications due to Parkinson's disease.
He was born on January 21,1939 in Davis, Oklahoma to Robert A and Audrey Lewis Sanders. After graduating high school, he attended Connors State College in Warner, Oklahoma. Jim served in the United States Army for three years, the United States Air Force for four years, and retired as a Chief Warrant Officer 2nd Class from the Kansas Army National Guard. Jim received a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Washburn University in 1974. Jim also retired from Southwestern Bell Telephone in 1996 and served as President of the Communications Workers of America. After retirement, he worked for the Athletic Department at Washburn University and traveled with the football team.
Jim married Marilyn Drum on August 4, 1967. She survives. Other survivors include his son, Jack Sanders (Carrie) and daughter Jennifer Beard (Chris) both of Topeka; six grandchildren, Ashley Sanders (Levi Glover), Dustin Sanders (Heather), Colton Miller, Tyson Miller, Cailey Callahan (Chris), and Logan Sanders (Aby); and two great-grandsons, Kayson and Lane Sanders. He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Jimmy Roe Sanders, and four brothers, Bob, Bill, Gene, and Douglas.
Visitation will be Sunday, November 2, from 2 until 4 p.m. at Kevin Brennan Family Funeral Home 2801 SW Urish Rd Topeka, KS 66614. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. on Monday, November 3, at the funeral home. Burial, with military honors, will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Midland Care Hospice House sent in care of the funeral home.
Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com.