J.W. Sanders, NFL official for six seasons, has passed away

J.W. Sanders, a NFL official from 1980 – 1985, died in February, at the age of 88.

Sanders wore number 15 during the 1979-81 numbering system, and after that wore number 29. He was a back judge (now called field judge) his entire NFL career. Before and after his NFL career, Sanders officiated college football in the Big 10 Conference and he officiated several bowl games. He was a deep wing in his college career.

For his NFL career, Sanders worked on crews lead by Gene Barth and Gordon McCarter. One of the most important games he officiated was the famous Monday Night Football game between the undefeated Chicago Bears and the Miami Dolphins – who desperately wanted the Bears to lose and thus defend the Dolphins 1972 undefeated season (video).

In his career, Sanders officiated one playoff game – the 1982 first-round “Super Bowl Tournament” game between the Patriots and Dolphins. This was after the strike-shortened 1982 season. Sanders made a big incomplete pass call early in the game.

From 1970 – 1998 Sanders was a professor at Eastern Illinois University. He also conducted several officiating camps and mentored several aspiring officials.

In retirement he re-located to Colorado and was a technical advisor for the Mountain West Conference.

Sanders is survived by two daughters and two grandchildren. His wife, Carol, preceded him in death.

Our sympathies to all who knew him and loved him. The text of his obituary is below.

J.W. Sanders, 88, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Born September 21, 1937, in Tennessee to Lawrence and Thelma Sanders of Mt. Vernon, Illinois, J.W. lived a life devoted to faith, family, education, and athletics.

He served as Professor of Physical Education at Eastern Illinois University from 1970 to 1998, where he was a respected coach and mentor. A lifelong passion for football led him to officiate in the Big Ten Conference and the NFL, and later serve as a Technical Advisor for the Mountain West Conference.

He is survived by his daughters, Lynn Cash (Skyler and Austin) and Mary Sanders (Eric Hamilton); sister Sandy Beardsley; grandchildren Krystan Tverberg (Blake and Rowen) and Krystopher Rowe. He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Carol; daughter Catherine Rowe; grandson Nathanyal Rowe; his parents; and brother Bobbie Sanders.

Funeral Mass will be held March 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Colorado Springs. Donations may be made to Pikes Peak Hospice.