Arlene Grace Sanderson

Arlene Grace Sanderson, a cherished soul born on April 7, 1949, in the mining town of Butte, Montana, peacefully departed this world on September 9, 2026, with her beloved family by her side. Her departure leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who were privileged to know her. Arlene was the beloved daughter of the late Ruth and Kail Southwick and grew up in the close-knit community of Waterloo, Montana. She carried the values instilled by her parents throughout her life, touching many with her warmth and kindness. Her brother, Tommy Southwick, and her son, Tommy Wagner, predeceased her, leaving a legacy of cherished memories. Arlene's life was a testament to love and resilience. She was first married to James Wagner and later found love again with her second husband, Jerry Sanderson, both of whom preceded her in death. Her family was her proudest achievement, and she leaves behind her devoted children, Dalena Baker (Mike Baker), James Wagner, and Theresa Wagner. Her grandchildren, Dontae, Logan, Lexie, Nicole, Tommy, Kyndra and Kylie held a special place in her heart, as they were the joy and pride of her life. Her siblings, Vicky Pattie (Mike), Julie White (Dave), Sandy Tooker, William Southwick (Joanne), and Roger Williams (Marilyn), remember her as a beacon of light, always ready with a joke to lighten any mood. Her quick wit and warm smile were her trademarks, and her ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued was a gift to all who knew her. Arlene's career was spent in Boulder, Montana, where she dedicated herself to the Montana Development Center and Elkhorn Treatment Center until her retirement in 2025. Her colleagues and those she cared for will remember her compassion and dedication. Arlene had a zest for life, evident in her love for shopping and decorating her beautiful home. She cherished her trips with her sister Vicky and brother-in-law Mike, exploring new places in their fifth-wheel trailer. She had a unique fondness for trips in the side-by-side to enjoy a meal at Kentucky Fried Chicken in Whitehall, a simple pleasure that brought her great joy. Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. Peters Hospice for their compassionate care during her final days. A service to honor Arlene's remarkable life will be held at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home & Crematory, located at 3750 N. Montana Ave. in Helena, MT. on September 18th at 11am. Arlene will be deeply missed but forever remembered, her legacy living on through the love and laughter she shared with the world.