Lillian Marvalene Sanborn

Lillian Marvalene Barkley Sanborn, 87, born Nov. 6, 1921 in Glendale, AZ, returned to her lifelong sweetheart May 8, 2009 after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease and cancer. Marvalene was a very talented and strong woman, a beautiful seamstress, wonderful cook, and accomplished pianist. She spent her entire life working with her husband and sons farming and ranching. She also worked as a telephone operator during WWII, at Dixon Electronics and retired from Gilbert High School in the 1980’s. Marvalene was a past Worthy Matron of the Eastern Star. She was a good friend, a devoted wife and loved her boys and grandchildren. She is survived by three sons, Jerry (Darlene), Terry (Marta) and Ricki (Becky), numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sister Phylis and two brothers Duane and Vernon. She was preceded in death by her husband Pryor, son Mike, grandson Wade and brother Robert Barkley. Graveside services will be held Thursday, May 13, 2009 at 10:00 AM at the City of Mesa Cemetery. Arrangements by Bunker’s Garden Chapel.