Luella Mae Critchfield Sanders was welcomed into the arms of her Maker on January 14, 2026, just shy of 90 beautiful years. Her passing is a profound loss to all who knew and loved her. Luella Mae was born on April 29, 1936, in Modesto, California, to Letha and Jim Critchfield. She became a mother to Richard (Sanders) in 1958 and Susie (Eidson) in 1960 while living in the Bay Area. Shortly thereafter, she and the love of her life, Tom Sanders, moved to Oroville, California, where they put down roots and formed a loving blended family of seven, including Leonard (Sanders), Shawn (Ramsey), and Kelly (Sanders). Together, Tom and Lue opened a tire shop that would later become Sanders Tire and Brake. It was truly a family business, where Tom, Lue, Rick, Leonard and Susie all treasured the relationships built within the community while working there. In 1966 Luella was working as a legal secretary and then soon after began working as a paralegal for some local attorneys. She quickly became a trusted and highly knowledgeable resource for attorneys and legal secretaries alike, earning awards, accolades, and the utmost respect in her field. Eventually, she transitioned into business ownership, desiring to create another opportunity for her family to grow and succeed alongside her. She founded Sanders Paralegal with her daughter-in-law, Tammy, and later welcomed her daughter, Susie, into the business. What truly set Luella apart was her unwavering ethics, integrity, and exceptional problem-solving abilities. She was frequently called upon by attorneys—and even judges—as an expert in her field. She was, in many ways, a founding force in her field, and her experience was invaluable. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Luella believed her greatest and most important calling was to serve the Lord. She was known for her powerful prayers and her dedication to supporting women and helping couples navigate times of hardship. She taught numerous church classes and led prayer groups with passion and devotion. Her relationship with Jesus was her most treasured, and his love shone through her as brightly as the sun. She lived a life rooted in faith, joyfully serving God and her church family. Luella had a smile that could light up a room and a contagious belly laugh that brought joy to all who heard it. She passed peacefully, surrounded by her family, holding their hands while her favorite hymns played. We find comfort in knowing she is now with her Heavenly Father and reunited with loved ones who went before her. Luella was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 43 years, Tom Sanders; her brother, Jimmy Critchfield; her stepson, Kelly Sanders; and her grandson, Tommy Sanders. She is survived by her brother, Bob Critchfield; her children, Leonard Sanders, Rick Sanders, Shawn Ramsey, and Susie Eidson; along with their spouses and children; and a legacy of many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. The family will be planning a celebration of life in the spring, with details to be shared as they become available. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to your favorite ministry or outreach program.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Ramsey Funeral Home 530-534-3877