Chicago, IL – Kenwood United Church of Christ mourns the passing of Rev. Dr. Leroy Sanders, the beloved and esteemed pastor emeritus who served the congregation for 36 years. Rev. Sanders passed away peacefully on Friday, December 13, 2024 at the age of 91.

In August 1980, Rev. Dr. Leroy Sanders was called as Senior Pastor. Under Rev. Sanders’ leadership the church grew both numerically and spiritually. During his tenure several ministries were born including our Feed the People soup kitchen and the Norma Jean Sanders Free Clinic named after Rev. Sanders’ late wife. Rev. Sanders retired in 2015 after 36 years of service.

Reflecting on his work, Rev. Sanders emphasized the importance of the community asserting their wants and needs and demanding the resources and opportunities that have too long been denied. “We must address the disparities in education, the lack of community facilities and the challenges faced by our youth. If you don’t speak out, ain’t nothing gonna happen.”

Funeral services for Rev. Dr. Sanders were held on Friday, December 27, 2024 at Kenwood United Church of Christ.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Kenwood Soup Kitchen or Norma Jean Sanders Free Clinic.

You may view the Celebration of Life services here: Part 1 | Part 2