Virginia Allen Sanders

Sis. Virginia Allen Sanders was born August 28, 1955, in Forrest City, Arkansas to the late James Ishmon, Sr. and the late Annie M. (Allen) Ishmon. Sis. Virginia Allen Sanders departed this earthly life on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, surrounded by her family. Virginia will be truly missed by her family and friends.

Virginia accepted the Lord, Jesus Christ at an early age. Virginia was employed at Thermos Structo for many years. She was also employed at Vitner’s Potato Chip factory and was employed there for many years. Virginia’s love for people led her to become a Certified Nursing Assistant; she was employed at St. Joseph Nursing Home until her health began to decline.

Virginia was a faithful member of the Friendship Missionary Baptist Church of Freeport, IL under the pastorate of Reverend Ricky Stidmon until her passing. Virginia served as a Junior Mother and tended to her duties with strictness and faithfulness. She was also a faithful member of the choir. Her voice was truly anointed, and she loved to sing praises unto the Lord. Virginia’s voice could be heard throughout the entire church along with her beautiful smile. Her love for music and singing was endless. She could sing anything that was given to her. 

Virginia loved being around her family. She loved every cookout, birthday gatherings, and especially loved her sister-time with her sisters, Annie and Donna. You could find the 3 of them in Monroe, Wisconsin at Seventh Avenue. Virginia loved to get dressed up. Virginia also loved her second family where she resided at Willow Park Apartments. They enjoyed gatherings and planning each other’s birthday gatherings and having coffee and donuts. 

Virginia loved singing, dancing, and visiting with her cousins and friends. 

Virginia enjoyed spending time with her special friend Mr. Earl Shipp. They could be seen out shopping or visiting with family and friends. 

Virginia lived her life to the fullest until her health wouldn’t allow it. She spent countless hours talking to friends and family on the phone. Virginia had a huge heart and loved everyone that she met. She was willing to do anything for anyone and never asked for anything in return. 

Virginia leaves to cherish her precious memories, One son, Kalvin Ishmon; 2 sisters: Annie Green and Nina (Willie) Ishmon; 4 brothers: Will (Evelyn) Phillips, James (Monika) Ishmon, David Ishmon, Wayne Ishmon, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Special Friends: Mr. Earl Shipp, Sis. Tamela Stidmon, Sis. Noni Euells, Sis. Joyce Wright, and Sis. Easter Carter. 

 She was preceded in death by her parents James Ishmon Sr, her mother, Annie (Allen) Ishmon, two sisters: Betty Ishmon and Gunetta Ishmon, and four brothers: Carl Ishmon, Curtis Ishmon, Christopher Ishmon, and Johnny Morris Jr.