Mary "Nellene" (Irvin) Sanders

Mary Nellene Irvin Sanders passed away on Thursday, June 27, 2024 at East Alabama Medical Center. Nellene was born on August 23, 1944 to Marget Elizabeth and Marvin Lee Irvin in Tallapoosa County, Alabama.

Nellene grew up in Langdale, Alabama where she enjoyed spending time with family growing up on a farm. She had a deep love of animals as they had many cows, chickens, goats, cats and dogs.

She married William Sanders, who has since passed, and had two children early in life. They made their home in Valley and then moved to Opelika, Alabama in the late 70’s where she worked at Ampex.

Eventually, she moved to the Easehouse Apartments in Auburn, Alabama. She resided there a little over 10 years where she made many friends.

Due to a stroke in 2020, her health declined over the remaining years of her life.

We are thankful to the many caregivers who assisted with her daily needs. The caregivers were very loving and became great friends of hers and the family.

The love she had for her family and friends was truly immeasurable.

Nellene was preceded in death by her parents; brothers: Joe Irvin, Jack Irvin, and Tom Irvin; a sister, Ganelle Irvin; and a grandson, Trey Martin.

Nellene is survived by her daughters: Jan Sanders Martin (Chuck) of Opelika, AL and Delana Sanders Swatts (David) of Dadeville, AL; her grandchildren: Cody Martin, Chloe Swatts Hillyer (Hayden), and Camden Swatts; her great-grandchildren: Kelsee Martin, Dalton Martin, Channing Martin, and Mary- Alton Hillyer; along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A funeral service will be held for Nellene on Sunday, June 30, 2024 at Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home beginning at 2:00 PM CST. A visitation will begin one hour prior to the service. Nellene will be laid to rest in Garden Hills Cemetery.