Frances M. Sanders

Frances M. Sanders, 84, of Spencer, former Shelbyville resident, passed away Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at IUHB in Bloomington.

Born December 27, 1940 in Shelbyville, she was the daughter of Paul & Violet (DeBaun) Swinford. She married Kenneth Sandefur of Beaver Dam, Kentucky, and although divorced, they remained good friends through the years.

Survivors include 3 children- Randy Alwardt (Stacy) of Edgewood, Illinois, Wayne Alwardt (Pamela) of Shelbyville, Paul Sandefur (Annette Carew) of St. Paul; a sister Paula Chitwood of Spencer; 18 grandchildren; 42 great granchildren; and 24 great great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, 3 sons- Rick Smith, Calvin Alwardt, Terry Alwardt, daughter Debbie Storms, sister Carolyn Johnson, granddaughters- Tonya Gearhardt, & Tequila Baker, and a great great grandson.

Mrs. Sanders had lived in Spencer for a year, after moving from Shelbyville. She had worked as a dietary aide at Heritage House Center for several years. She attended Flat Rock school, and also attended First Christian Church.

Frances enjoyed square dancing, playing Bingo, camping & fishing, and loved spending time with her family and grandchildren.

Funeral services will be 12:00 noon on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at Glenn E. George & Son Funeral Home, 437 Amos Road, with Pastor Ralph Botte officiating. Burial will be in Flat Rock Cemetery, at a later date. Friends may call on Saturday morning from 10:00 am until the time of the service, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Shelbyville/Shelby County Animal Shelter, in care of the funeral home.

Online condolences may be shared at glennegeorge andson.com.