Laura Isabell Sander

Laura Isabell Sander, born March 12, 1947, in Johnson City, New York, passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness, surrounded by the love of family and friends.

She was the daughter of Kitchel and Lillian (Seely) Pierson and was raised on her family’s farm in Chenango Bridge. It was there that Laura developed the strong work ethic, independence, and determination that would define her life. As a young woman, she proudly exhibited vegetables and handmade garments at the Broome County Fair and was honored as Dairy Princess for both Crowley Milk Company and the Broome County Fair.

Laura was a trailblazer, helping to pave the way for women in leadership roles within the corporate world. She began her career with McDonald’s Corporation as a restaurant manager and, through talent, perseverance, and vision, rose to become Director of Operations for the Boston Regional Office. Her leadership and commitment left a lasting impression on colleagues and employees alike.

She married Larry Sander and together they welcomed their son, Christopher. Choosing to focus on both family and entrepreneurship, Laura became a McDonald’s franchisee, purchasing her first restaurant in Downingtown, Pennsylvania. With her keen operational insight and unwavering dedication, she grew her business to five restaurants, employing more than 300 people. She took great pride not only in her success, but in the opportunities she created for others.

Laura had a deep love of words and a lifelong curiosity that kept her mind sharp. She delighted in word games and was known for her quick wit, thoughtful observations, and candid sense of humor. She especially treasured time spent with friends over a glass of wine, sharing stories, laughter, and her unique perspective on life.

After the loss of her husband, Laura found love again with Tom Faust. Together they built a beautiful home and shared several joyful years until his passing in 2021. In recent years, she shared a deeply loving relationship with her fiancé, John Tullio. They enjoyed traveling near and far, caring for Walter the dog, and spending quiet, meaningful time together.

Laura’s greatest joy was the people in her life. She will be deeply missed by her devoted employees, her many friends and colleagues, and most of all by her beloved family.

She is survived by her son, Christopher Sander, and his wife, Shannon; her fiancé, John Tullio; her brother, Raymond Pierson; her sister, Joyce Luby (Daniel); and many nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents and her sisters, Ethel Titchener and Frances Pierson.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Mary’s Shelter, 615 Kenhorst Blvd, Reading, PA 19611 marysshelter.org or the Ronald McDonald House of Philadelphia, 3925 Chestnut St., Philadelphia PA 19104 rmhcphilly.org

A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated on Monday April 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Elizabeth Roman Catholic Church, 110 St. Elizabeth Drive, Chester Springs, PA 19425. Burial will be private. Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., West Reading is honored to serve Laura’s family. Online condolences may be recorded at www.kuhnfuneralhomes.com.