Dorma Nell Sanders

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Dorma Nell Sanders, who departed this life on October 5, 2026, at the age of 85. Born on December 26, 1940, at home in Alluwe, Oklahoma, to Dorman Dennis Pannell and Blanche Pauline (Franklin) Pannell.

On June 5, 1959, Dorma united in marriage with Ronald D Sanders at the Epworth United Methodist Church in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Together, they nurtured three beautiful children; Mike, Kristi and Jana, instilling in them the values of compassion and service that defined her life. As a devoted stay-at-home mom during their formative years. Dorma's nurturing spirit shaped not just her children but also the countless lives she touched throughout her journey.

In 1973, Dorma began her tenure as a beloved lunch lady with the USD 446 school district, serving at Elk City Elementary until its closure in 1985. Her kitchen became a haven for laughter, camaraderie, and nourishing meals, leaving lasting memories in the hearts of the children she served. Later, she took on the role of Elk City Clerk, continuing her legacy of community service for several years. Throughout her years in Elk City, Kansas, Dorma also devoted herself to the Elk City Fair, generously giving her time and support to this cherished community tradition.

A pillar of the church community, Dorma was a member of the Elk City Global Methodist Church where she dedicated 40 years as church treasurer. Dorma later answered the call of mission work with the Steven Ministry in Independence, Kansas. She also passionately embarked on Elk City United Methodist Church Mission Trips in Elk City, Kansas, to Haiti, Texas, and Louisiana. She also dedicated many years teaching bible school and adult Sunday school. Her faith and commitment to service inspired all who knew her, exemplifying life lived in love and charity.

Dorma is remembered by her children Mike (Elaine) Sanders, Elk City, Kansas, Kristi (Alan) Speicher, Elk City, Kansas, Jana (Keith) Groden, Jenks, Oklahoma; her brother, Dennis (Vickie) Pannell, Bartlesville, Oklahoma, her sister-in-law Barbara (Mike) Rake, Bixby, Oklahoma; grandchildren; Brandon (Ashley) Sanders, Elk City, Kansas, Laura (Chris) Sanders, Jenks, Oklahoma, Emily (Tim) Haynes, Independence, Kansas, Ethan (Angel) Speicher, Independence, Kansas, Tanner Vaughan, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Evan Speicher, Elk City, Kansas, Trey (Laney) Vaughan, Pierce City, Missouri, Spencer (Carlie) Sanders, Ochelata, Oklahoma, Mollie (John) Morgan, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; Twenty-eight great-grandchildren, all of whom will hold her memory close to their hearts.

In celebration of Dorma's life and the legacy she leaves behind, a Memorial Service will be held on October 9, 2026, at 10:00 am, at Webb & Rodrick Chapel, where family and friends will gather to share stories, laughter, and tears, honoring the remarkable woman she was. Following the service, a graveside service will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Elk City, Kansas.

In her passing, Dorma leaves behind a rich tapestry of memories, woven with love, strength and kindness. As we bid farewell to our beloved mother, grandmother and friend, we find comfort in knowing that her spirit will continue to live on in our hearts, inspiring us to carry forth her legacy of love and service to others.

Dorma was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ronald D Sanders, her parents, Dorman Dennis Pannell and Blanche Pauline (Franklin) Pannell, and granddaughter, Jennifer Rene-Sanders.

Memorial donations can be made to the Elk City Global Methodist Church in Elk City, Kansas, or to Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice.