John Sanders

Visitation:
Wednesday, September 14
1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Sanders Funeral Home Chapel
806 E Market St
Smithfield, NC 27577
(919) 934-8416

Graveside Service:
Thursday, September 15
10:30 AM
Carolina Biblical Gardens
1530 Creech Rd,
Garner, NC 27529

Mr. John Sanders, Jr. was born on July 26, 1926, in Harnett
County, North Carolina to the union of the late John Arthur Sanders and
the late Mary Shaw Massey Sanders. He transitioned this earthly life on
September 6, 2022, at Wake Med Hospital, Raleigh, NC. Mr. Sanders
spent his formative years in Harnett County. Later, his family relocated to
Johnston County where he was educated in the public school system.
Professionally, Mr. Sanders was a gifted contractor and
entrepreneur. He passed down these special traits and competencies to
his children, grandchildren and further generations which is currently
evident in their work and business endeavors. Mr. Sanders started up
his own business, Sanders Construction company, which he owned and
operated for several decades. As a business owner, he serviced contracts
for the Wake County government to renovate houses throughout the county
and surrounding geographic areas. Prior to starting his business, he was
a trailblazer in various positions. For example, he became the first Black
supervisor to manage laundry services at Rex Hospital in Raleigh, NC.
and worked there for 29 years. Subsequent to this position, he ignited his
entrepreneurial spirit and acted on his interest in renovating and building
houses which led to his startup as a business owner. Additionally, Mr.
Sanders had several hobbies. He was a talented furniture upholsterer and
gardener. His home reflected the beauty of his talents, inside and outside.
He loved attending church and was a faithful tither and attendee
while his health prevailed. Mr. Sanders was a founding member of
Johnston Freewill Baptist Church and the oldest member.
Mr. Sanders was a loving family man. He is affectionately known
by his nieces and nephews as 'Uncle Noonie'.
In 1945, he married the late Hazel Wright Sanders who preceded
him in death in 2002. To this union was born five wonderful children;
John Robert, Bettye Jean, Elvin, Brenda Gale, and Deborah. Elvin
preceded his parents and siblings in death when he was a youngster.
The Order of Service The Obituary
In 1992, Mr. Sanders married Vermel B. King Sanders. During
their union, they raised Vermel's four children who became Mr. Sanders'
step-children; Sherrell, James, the late Eddie, and Alphonza. Vermel
preceded Mr. Sanders in death in 2008.
In 2009, Mr. Sanders married Audrey Smith Sanders. To
this union, Audrey has a daughter and son who became Mr. Sanders'
stepchildren; Chimease and Maurice.
Mr. Sanders leaves to cherish his memory; wife, Audrey; five
children (one deceased); John Robert (Karen), Bettye Jean Sanders, Elvin
(deceased), Brenda Gale Sanders Pedersen (Dr. Walter Pedersen) and
Deborah Williams. Six step-children (one deceased); Chimease Smith
(Mike), Maurice Smith (Janet), Sherrell K. Bizzell (Chris), James King
(Sylvia), Eddie King (deceased) (Queen) and Alphonza King (Trina).
A special friend, Mr. Otis Perry. And a host of grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, nieces, nephews,
cousins, and loved ones.