C.L. Sanborn

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Clarence Leroy (C.L.) Sanborn, age 92, of Dalhart, Texas, passed away in his home on March 21, 2025. He was born on September 17, 1932, in Cherokee, Oklahoma. He was preceded in death by his father, Leroy Sanborn, mother, Matha Bowling Sanborn, brother, Charles Sanborn, and sister, Willa Mae Sanborn.

C.L. married his wife, Priscilla Sanborn, in 1956 who lovingly cared for him until his passing. They shared 68 years of devoted companionship. He is survived by his beloved wife, Priscilla; daughter, Nema Heller of Temple, son, Gilbert Sanborn of Albuquerque, son, Charlie Sanborn of Dalhart, and daughter Yolanda Delaney and husband, Brandt, of Canyon; grandchildren, Sharish Davis and husband, Justin, Joshua Heller, Chad Sanborn, Liberty Sanborn, Matthew Sanborn, Ethan Sanborn, Sammy Sanborn and Jet Delaney; great-grandchildren, Shayra and Shayden Davis, Brandalyn, Kylee, and Breanne Heller.

C.L. dedicated 28 years of his life to serving the Dalhart Police Department and served as Chief of Police from 1966 to 1983. He was involved in the famous 1971 XIT shootout, a notable event in the history of Dalhart. He proudly played baseball for the Army. C.L. was actively involved in the Lion’s club and served as President in 1974. He was a Master Mason and a Khiva Shriner, receiving his 50 year recognition pin. He was a Past Worthy Patron of Eastern Star. In addition, he taught judo and was an explorer post scout leader with judo as their theme. C.L. organized and directed elementary school crossing guards who always looked forward to an end of the year celebration picnic at Puente DeAgua. He cherished the simple joys of life, including meeting friends at the coffee shop, telling jokes, and playing dominoes.

Some of his proudest accomplishments included his long and distinguished career in law enforcement and his commitment to his fraternal organizations. He leaves behind a legacy of dedicated service and community involvement. C.L. will be remembered for his steadfast presence, his stories from his years of service, and his enjoyment of everyday moments shared with friends and family.

A funeral service to celebrate C.L.'s life will be held at First Christian Church in Dalhart, Texas, on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., followed by a graveside service at Memorial Park Cemetery in Dalhart, where Military Honors and Masonic Burial Rites will be rendered.

The family will host a visitation and viewing on Wednesday, March 26, from 5-7 p.m. at Dalhart Funeral Home. The family will receive visitors this week at 1022 Denrock.

Pallbearers are: Cliff Delano, Hayden Harper, Randy Welling, Jorge Gomez, Dean Carroll, and Randy Hooks.

Honorary Pallbearers are: Mike Vasquez, Billy Howard, Jerry Delano, Shane Stevenson, Frank Weaver, Frankie Scott, and Randy Scroggins.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of C.L. to:

Dallas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children

2222 Welborn Street

Dallas, Texas 75219