Sarah Jessie Van Doren

Sarah Jessie Van Doren, 93, passed away on February 15, 2026 in Alamogordo, New Mexico. She was born on December 6, 1932 in Brookside , Newfoundland, Canada to David Smith and Emily Saunders Smith. 

She was raised in Brookside and after a short working career in St John's Newfoundland, she married Airman Lawrence Sanderson on April 15, 1952.  They moved to the United States in the mid-50s, traveling from one station to another finally living in Izmir, Turkey for 2 plus years.  She moved to Alamogordo in January 1965.  She was divorced and them married Bob Gonzales in 1973.  They were stationed in Panama in 1974, moving back to Alamogordo in 1978.  She worked at Angelina's Cafe for several years as a waitress and cook.  Bob passed away in 1991.  Sarah was married for the third time to John Van Doren.  John passed away in 2015.  She lived a long and comfortable life.

Survivors include Susan Rentscheler (Robert), Eric Sanderson (Nomie) and Dirk Sanderson (Marion).  She had 9 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.  She is survived by her siblings: David Smith, Marilyn Downey, Sylvia King Carol Crowther, Doreen Hollett and Leroy Smith all residing in Canada. 

She was preceded in death by her son, David Sanderson; parents, David and Emily Smith; and by sisters, Alice Oram, Elizabeth King, Annette King, Bernice Lockyer; and brother, Don Smith.

A Memorial Service has been scheduled for March 28, 2026 at 11 am at St. John's Episcopal Church located at 1114 Indiana in Alamogrodo, New Mexico.  She will be lad to rest in the St. John's columbarium.

If friends desire, contributions may be made to St. John's Day School in her name.

The family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Scenic Chapel.
 

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