Jon A. Sanders

Jon Allyn Sanders, a cherished athlete, coach, and mentor, passed away on September 4, 2024, in El Paso, Texas. Born on August 11, 1938, in Oklahoma City, Jon’s remarkable journey began with a passion for sports that would define his life and legacy.

From a young age, Jon demonstrated exceptional talent in athletics; at just 16, he set the New Mexico 1A Long Jump Record, which still stands as the oldest track and field record in the country. He attended Texas Western College, now known as the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), where he excelled in both track and field and basketball. He set the school’s Long Jump record, which stood for almost 2 decades . Beyond track, Jon was a key player on the basketball team, serving as captain during both his junior and senior years, named MVP his senior year, and earning All Conference honors. He is a Miner Legend and Hall of Fame member. After his collegiate success, Jon reached the professional level, fulfilling a dream by playing for the Detroit Pistons.

Jon’s dedication to excellence continued beyond his athletic career as he pursued higher education, earning two master’s degrees from Boston and Salem State Universities. He went on to coach men’s basketball at M.I.T., where he inspired young athletes with his leadership and commitment. Jon later served as Athletic Director at Greater Lawrence Tech for over 17 years.

Jon eventually returned to El Paso, where he continued to shape the lives of countless athletes and made a lasting impact on the community. In 1994, Jon was inducted into the El Paso Athletic Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to the world of sports. Over the next three decades, he remained a prominent figure in the athletic community, leaving an indelible mark through his mentorship, coaching, and unwavering support.

Jon is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Lynda Sanders; his children, Scott Sanders, Kristi Lavallee (John), Susan Breault (Bob), and Sean Sanders (Morgan); his sister, Carol Straughan; and his five grandchildren, Kaitlyn Lavallee, Ryan Lavallee, Hayden Breault, Nolan Lavallee, and Colby Breault. He was preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Lucy Sanders; and his sisters, Tommy Lou Richardson and Margaret Jean Perez.

Jon Allyn Sanders will be remembered not only for his athletic achievements but also for his kindness, generosity, and the profound impact he had on everyone who knew him. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide those who strive for greatness in both sports and life. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten by his family, friends, former athletes, and all who were fortunate enough to be touched by his remarkable spirit.

He will be laid to rest on Thursday, September 12, 2024. Pallbearers will be Scott Sanders, Sean Sanders, Ryan Lavallee, Carl Horkowitz, Jerry Castro, Andres Alonso, Jackson Jordan, and Arthur Valiant. Honorary Pallbearers will be AA Hooky Apodaca, John Lavallee, Nolan Lavallee, Hayden Breault, Colby Breault, Mike Nunez, Anthony Pastrana, Vince Arroyo, Dr. Dan Kies, and Wayne Thornton. Service details are below. 

Funeral Service will be held Thursday, September 12, 2024, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am at St. Francis on the Hill Episcopal Church, 6280 Los Robles Drive. Interment to follow at 12:00 pm at Memory Gardens of the Valley Cemetery, 4900 McNutt Road, Santa Teresa NM. 

 Please visit his online memorial at www.susnetfuneralhomes.net.