James Sanders, Sr.

JAMES ELDRIDGE SANDERS, SR.

was born on Thursday, March 19, 1936, in Hope Hull, Alabama, to John W. Sanders and Corine Smith Sanders. He peacefully departed this life on Sunday, July 2, 2023, at his residence. He was eighty-seven years of age.

James was the second of six children and brought immense happiness and love to his family. From a young age, James was known for his kind, gentle, obedient, and mild-tempered nature. He had a genuine love for everyone he met. Initially captivated by horses, he later developed a deep passion for cars and embraced a lifelong love for travel.

A devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, James’s heart overflowed with love. He graduated from Calhoun Laboratory High School and relocated to Cleveland, Ohio, where he met and married his beloved wife, Linda, with whom he shared sixty-four and a half years of cherished companionship.

It was through his sister-in-law, Rosa, that he discovered the Seventh-day Adventist Church and its message; a life-changing revelation. Learning about the opportunity to attend Oakwood College, James and Linda eagerly explored the idea, making all necessary preparations for enrollment, finding employment, and securing housing in the married student apartments. After obtaining his Bachelor of Arts degree, James was offered a position in Columbus, Ohio, at General Motors, as a Middle Manager in the Automotive Parts and Accessories Division, where he dedicated twenty-three years of his life, until his retirement in 1991. Following his retirement,he contributed his expertise to the family business for eight years in Maryland, before they eventually returned to Columbus.

James had a burning passion for spreading the gospel and seized every opportunity to share his faith with others. He embodied his beliefs, speaking, walking, and living the teachings of the gospel. He actively engaged in church activities and found great fulfillment in his involvement with Prison Ministries, where he preached to the brokenness of the prisoners and introduced them to the One who could set them free.

For several years, he served as the first elder at Ephesus SDA Church and later, at Fruit of the Spirit SDA Church, formally known as Southside SDA Church. Additionally, he served as an elder at Central SDA Church and Community Praise Center SDA Church. For over thirty years, James was an integral part of the Good Samaritan Club, where he selflessly served those in need and exemplified the true meaning of compassion and kindness.

During the later years of his life, James became ill and was lovingly cared for by his wife, Linda, who remained by his side until the very end.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his siblings, Samuel Sanders and John Sanders; granddaughter, Madyson Jones; and brother-in law, Henry Harris.

James is survived by his loving wife, Linda Sanders, and their children, Twyla Davis and James (Maribel) Sanders Jr. He will be deeply missed by his siblings, Mary Harris, Laura (Harold) Henry, and Edsel Sanders; sisters-in-law, Betty Sanders and Iva Sanders. Aunts, Ann Sanders and Clara Sanders and Uncle Arthur Sanders will share memories of the blessings James brought to their lives. His life will be celebrated by grand and great grandchildren, Nicol (Vaughn), Nakia, Lindsey, Dorian, Arlene, Halla, Jimmy, Eden, Christian, Cross, Cayden, Braylen, Daylen, Soleil, Skye, and Jalen. He also leaves behind cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will hold his memory close.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Sanders, Sr., please visit our floral store.