Virgil Robert Sanders

Virgil Robert Sanders was born in Greenwood, Indiana to the late Moman and Margaret "Maggie" Sanders on September 28, 1934. He passed away on Sunday, December 7, 2025 at the age of 91. He was one of seven children (his siblings were Thelma, Catherine, Patty, Barbara Jean, Bud and LeRoy. They all preceded him in death.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Betty Jean Hill Sanders, daughters, Kathy (Russ) Sanders McElwain, Susan (David) Sanders Hayes, grandchildren, Kristin (Matt) Miller, Ryan (Ali) McElwain, Dustin (Lesley) Hayes and Derek (Abby) Hayes. He also had six wonderful great-grandchildren that he adored, Athene Catherine Hayes, age 8, Emmett Russell Miller, age 8, Harlon Jo Hayes, age 7, George Kenton Hayes, age 6, Remy David McElwain, age 4, and Noah May Hayes, age 4, a sister-in-law, Liz Hill and many nieces and nephews.

Virgil was in the United States Army from 9/24/1952 to 9/14/1955, achieving the rank of Sergeant. After his discharge in 1955, he went to work at RCA Record Division and was a Foreman in the warehouse until he took early retirement to help care for his wife. At his job he was able to meet several of RCA's recording artists from the 70's and 80's. He loved being able to tell about getting word from Elvis Presley that he needed some records shipped to him. Virgil got that taken care of ASAP and was even sent a Christmas card from the King himself.

After retiring, he worked security at the RCA Dome and Lucas Old Stadium on the dock. He loved that job! He was one of the last people in the RCA Dome. Closing things down on final time before the roof was deflated. He also had the Lucas Oil Stadium dock named after him for his 80th birthday in 2014. A day that was very special to him. The Lucas Oil Stadium and Colts made a big deal for this special day. He was even interviewed for the local new and received his own personal Colts jersey with his last name on it along with "80" for his birthday. A sign was erected in the dock area with The Virgil Sanders Dock name on it as well.

Virgil could be found in the bleachers, auditoriums, fields etc. for any event his grandchildren were involved in. From Winter Guard to football, track & field, soccer, tennis, baseball, basketball, show choir, etc. He was a man of few words unless he was talking about his family, sports, or the "old days" then he could "talk your ear off". He was so proud of his grandchildren as they became adults and the wonderful human beings they had become.

In his last year or two, things had become more difficult for him. He did not get out as much, but he still appreciated all those family members and friends who called, visited, sent cards, prayed or sent photos. One more thing he did really enjoy the past couple of years was listening to a recording of his brother-in-law, Billy Ray Hill. Bill Ray was recorded singing a hymn in his final weeks of life and Virgil listened to it most days. We always had to make sure to transfer that recording when Dad got a new phone or he accidentally deleted it.

He was a good Husband, Dad & Pop and he will be extremely missed. We love you, Pop.

Virgil will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at Washington Park East Indianapolis.