The Alabama men’s basketball program announced on Wednesday that Annette, the wife of former coach Wimp Sanderson, has passed away. She was eighty-six.
“The University of Alabama and the men’s basketball team are saddened by the passing of Annette Sanderson, the spouse of former head coach Wimp Sanderson.” Annette was a gentle, caring, and affectionate individual. Besides being an amazing woman, she acted as a mother to the Alabama basketball players under Wimp’s coaching, consistently offering support and affection to our student-athletes.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Wimp and the entire Sanderson family.” The Sanderson family will announce the funeral arrangements at a future date.
As reported by AL.com, the Sandersons had a marriage that lasted 67 years. Born on November 19, 1938, Annette would encounter her future spouse during her high school years. They tied the knot soon after finishing their degrees and never regretted it.
An excerpt from her obituary was also included in AL.com’s article: “Annette was a devoted Christian wife and mother who raised three wonderful sons, all of whom opted for coaching, which meant Annette experienced a coaching family throughout her life and embodied the quintessential coach’s wife and mother during every triumph and challenging defeat. … She cherished supporting her husband and sons during their coaching journeys. Her preferred activities included playing tennis, reading books, spending time with family and friends, playing cards, cooking, and decorating her houses. She embraced life to the fullest and will be cherished by many.