RICHARD H. SANDERSON

Richard Hayes Sanderson, Franklin, NC (formerly of Emporium, PA and North Stratford, NH) passed away at home on December 10, 2015.

 Born in Lyndonville, VT on December 3, 1930, he was the son of Daniel Pierce Sanderson and Queenie Libby Sanderson. Richard grew up working on his family’s farm and later served in the Vermont National Guard. He built his professional life in the fields of Accounting and Real Estate. Richard enjoyed singing and playing guitar. Family gatherings included his music and sing-a-longs. 

While in Emporium, he always looked forward to performing at Aroma Café’s open-mic night. He continued to enjoy singing and strumming throughout his life . Richard loved flying. He earned his private and commercial pilot’s licenses, and enjoyed sharing his interest in flying with those he met.

 At Emporium’s Keystone Airport, he found lasting friendships with others. His work was vital to the life of Emporium’s Keystone Airport but despite years of effort by him and others to prevent its closing, Emporium’s airport was permanently closed. When Richard flew his plane from the closed airport to its new home in St. Mary’s, his was the last flight to take off from that field. He continued to enjoy sharing stories and talking about flying until his death. Richard loved his family; especially his “Wifey”, Lorraine. Together since their teens, she was the greatest blessing and love in his life.

Richard is survived by his loving wife of 66 years and his three daughters and their husbands;

 Carol and Chuck Shelton of Franklin, NC,

 Patti and Loren Plisco of Woodstock, GA, and

 Cheri and Doug Crotty of Cornelius, NC.

 He is also survived by three grandchildren and their spouses; 

Justin (Kristy), Drew (Mary), and Heather (Matt) and great-granddaughter, Laura.

Richard was predeceased by all of his siblings; Dorreen Devenger, Correen Sanderson, Daniel Sanderson, Darlene Clark, and David Sanderson.

 Richard was a member of Morrison Presbyterian Church in Franklin where his life will be celebrated during a memorial service on January 16, 2016, at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Richard’s memory to Angel Home Care and Hospice, 170 Church Street, Franklin, NC, 28734.

 We are so grateful for the many years we had with the man we call husband, Dad, and PopPop. We are truly blessed that we were loved by him.

 Crawford / Ray Funeral Home and Cremation Service is honored to be caring for

 the Sanderson family.