Jennifer Lee Sanders

Jennifer Lee Sanders of Hays, Kansas, passed away on Friday, April 10, 2026, at HaysMed. Born on September 9, 1993, in Hays to Rosa Lee Allen and John Sanders Sr., Jennifer was a cherished daughter, sister, and friend. She graduated from Hays High School in 2012.

Jennifer’s spirit touched all who knew her. Known for her warm heart and infectious laughter, she never met a stranger and was often heard sharing her sense of humor. A dedicated participant in the Special Olympics, Jennifer’s joy shone brightest on the basketball court and in cheerleading. Her creativity included coloring, solving word search puzzles, or building intricate creations from Lego blocks, she approached life with imagination and zest. Jennifer also had a special fondness for the television show Friends and could recite every episode by heart. She was a member of St. Joseph’s Church in Hays.

Jennifer is lovingly remembered by her mother, Rosa Lee Mewhinney; her step father, Rick Shanley; her brothers Anthony Mewhinney, Brian Mewhinney and his wife Priscilla, Jonathan Mewhinney and his wife Brandy, and Darin Mewhinney; her sister April Burd and husband Kevin; as well as her many nieces and nephews: Ashley, Rachel, Emma, Madeline, Rylee, Sofiana, Kaitlyn, Aurora, Paysen, Robert, Aiden, Landon, Elijah, Deagen, and Kahlen. She was also blessed to share a close bond with her special friend, Tyler Jones.

Jennifer was preceded in death by her father, her grandparents Hedy Allen, Elmer, and Freda Sanders, and her beloved fur baby, Lexi.

Jennifer’s bright light and joyful spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A visitation will be held on Thursday from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory—Brock’s Chapel in Hays, with a combined parish vigil and rosary service at 7:00 PM.

Funeral services will take place Friday at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, with burial to follow at St. Catherine Cemetery in Catharine, Kansas.

In honor of Jennifer’s life and passions, memorial contributions may be made to the ARC of Central Plains or the Special Olympics. Friends and family are invited to share their memories on Jennifer’s tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com.