Elsa Carolyn Thames Sanders

Elsa Carolyn Thames Sanders, 89, passed away on May 7, 2025 in Waco, Texas.

Born on June 28, 1935, Elsa grew up in Hearne, Texas, and graduated as valedictorian from Hearne High School in 1953.

She continued her education at Baylor University, earning her degree in 1957. She taught school briefly and was a homemaker.

Elsa was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. William Bruce Sanders, her parents, CB “Tim” and Katy Thames, her brother, Tim Thames, and her youngest son, Tim Sanders.

She is remembered by children: Daughters, Lynn Smiland and Dr. Carol Hillhouse (Joe), and son Bill Sanders (Jane). She was Granny to her grandchildren, Melissa Sayler (Mark), Marshall Smiland (Deliah), Morgan Smiland (Emily), Grady Hillhouse (Crystal), Graham Hillhouse (Stephanie), Lacy Vargas (Chris), and Riley Sanders, as well as 14 great-grandchildren.

Elsa was a devoted fan of Baylor Football, bargain-hunting, bridge, animals, gardening and bluebell ice cream.

A private burial will take place in Hearne, Texas.