Lonnie Sanders

The Life of Lonnie Sanders Lonnie “Hook” Sanders was born to Viola and John Sanders on September 5, 1949 in Laurel, Mississippi. Their union also resulted in the birth of Barnard Sanders. Lonnie and Barnard spent the early part of their lives in Mississippi until they moved to Chicago in 1956 with their mother. Lonnie graduated from Dunbar Vocational High School in 1967 and joined the US Navy shortly thereafter. After serving his country overseas, Lonnie returned to his hometown, of Chicago.

On September 24, 1977, Lonnie welcomed the birth of his daughter, Danielle Luellen. Lonnie was elated with becoming a father and he truly adored her. Lonnie was even more overjoyed with the birth of his granddaughter, Jasmine and his grandson, Jalen. Lonnie’s righthand man, Barnard “Quick Fire” preceded him in death in 1996 and his mother who he affectionately called “the old bird” also preceded him in death in 1997. In 2001, Lonnie married Phyllis Renae McDaniel-Sanders.

This union was blessed with five children; Aaron McDaniel, Kerri McDaniel, Felix Turnage, Brianna Sanders and Tyreace Sanders. Phyllis and Lonnie were married 18 years until her untimely death in April 2019. Lonnie’s stepfather, Silas Ransome, who he nicknamed “the old man” preceded him in death in March 2020 and his baby brother, Silas Malcolm Ransome, also preceded him in death in November 2020. Lonnie truly, was a jack of all trades. He worked several years at the US Steel Mill, at various Construction Companies, at the University of Illinois at Chicago, Sky Chefs and finally at Gate Gourmet where he retired. Lonnie was known for his love of music.

He truly enjoyed cooling out (wearing his Kangol hats) and relaxing to the sounds of the Whispers and the Temptations. He loved to enjoy his old school R&B and shoot darts, which was another one of his favorite past times. Lonnie also enjoyed bowling and spending time with his family. Lonnie leaves to cherish his memory, his children: Danielle Luellen, Aaron McDaniel, Kerri McDaniel, Felix Turnage, Brianna Sanders and Tyreace Sanders; his only sister, Bridgette Mittons (Stephen); and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.