George Robert Sanderson

FULTON – George Robert Sanderson, 81, of Fulton, New York, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2026.

Born October 22, 1944, in Childress, Texas, George was the son of George A. Sanderson and Dorothy (Zellner) Sanderson of Camillus, New York. He graduated from West Genesee High School in 1962.

On July 4, 1964, George married Diane B. Male, with whom he shared nearly 59 years of marriage until her passing. Together, George and Diane raised their family and made their home in several Central New York communities, including Liverpool, Clay and Baldwinsville. They later moved to Tavares, Florida, where they spent approximately 10 years together. Following Diane’s passing, George returned to Central New York and settled in Fulton to be with family.

George’s life was marked by a willingness to pursue new paths. Earlier in his career, he worked for Cambridge Filter, formerly of Liverpool, as a cost accountant and a purchasing agent. As an adult, George returned to school and earned three degrees from Syracuse University: a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Services in 1990, a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling in 1992 from the School of Education and a Master of Social Work from the School of Social Work in 1994. He went on to work as a social worker and later answered a call to ministry, serving as pastor of Apulia United Methodist Church in Tully, New York.

George had many interests throughout his life. A longtime fan of Star Trek and science fiction, he enjoyed television, playing guitar and piano,and crossword puzzles. He was also an artist who enjoyed watercolor painting. Music held a special place in his life as well. From the late 1960s into the early 1970s, George played guitar with The Way West, a local country-rock band.

George is survived by his children, George Michael Sanderson and Laura Jean (Todd) Brown; six grandchildren, Jocelyn Sanderson, Christen Sanderson, Brendan (Katie) Marra, Robert Sanderson, Alex (Deanna) Sanderson and Aubrey (Mark) Hyde; his great-grandchildren; and his brother, Donald Sanderson.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Diane Sanderson; his son, Matthew Sanderson; his sister, Grace; and his parents, George and Dorothy Sanderson.

Throughout his 81 years, George filled many roles—husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, musician, artist, social worker and pastor. His journey took him from Texas to Central New York, to Florida and ultimately back home, leaving behind a family whose lives carry forward his story and memories.

Services will be held privately by the family.