LEWISTON — William Coventry Sanders, 86, of Leeds, died Tuesday, Aug. 2, at Marshwood Health Care Center, following a long, courageous battle with cancer.

He was born in Livermore, Sept. 8, 1924, the second child of Arthur L. and Marjorie (Coventry) Sanders. When he was a young child, his family moved to the farm on the North Road in Leeds. Bill attended school in Leeds and graduated from Leavitt Institute in Turner in 1942.

On Oct. 12, 1952, Bill married the love of his life, Louise Torrey of Livermore Falls. They made their home on the family farm, leaving only for an occasional vacation. Bill worked with his father for many years farming and logging, upon the death of his father, Arthur, he took over the operation of Sander-Lou Farm. He continued to milk cows until the late 1990s.

He received numerous awards from Oakhurst Dairy for the quality and quantity of the milk he produced. He was highly respected in the farming community.

Upon his retirement, he enjoyed traveling with Louise including memorable trips to Branson, Mo. He will be remembered for his amazing work ethic, his wonderful smile, and great good humor.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Louise Sanders of Leeds; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his brother, Richard Sanders; and sisters, Marion Dixon and Lucile Adams.

Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at: www.finleyfuneralhome.com.