Wanda LaVern Sanders

Wanda LaVern Sanders, a longtime resident of Okmulgee, passed away on August 31, 2025, at the age of 89. She was born on January 6, 1936, in Tucumcari, New Mexico, to Harry Edward Burlingame and Sara Jane (Cantrell) Burlingame.

LaVern worked for many years as a dedicated store clerk at the local Walmart, where she was known for her kind heart and warm smile.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her granddaughter, Kellie LaVern Scott; two grandsons, Jimmy Lee and Donald James Reed; a great-granddaughter, Kimberlynn Schultz, and a great-grandson, Donneil Lee Jones.

LaVern is survived by her three children: Kathleen Rich and husband Robert; Tony Scott and wife Glenda; and Cheryl Davis and Robert. She also leaves behind a legacy of love through her twelve grandchildren, thirty-eight great-grandchildren, and thirteen great-great-grandchildren. In addition, she is survived by her brother, Harry Burlingame, and her sister, Wilma Kalman.

Viewing will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at Integrity Funeral Service.

Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 5, 2025, at Integrity Chapel, with Rev. Robert Christian officiating. Interment will follow at Westlawn Cemetery under the direction of Integrity Funeral Service.

Pallbearers will be Tony Scott, Robert Reed, Jr., Randy Rhodes, Brent Rich, Thomas Rich, and Lamont McGee.

LaVern will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Her strength, devotion to family, and warm spirit will be deeply missed.