Mr. James D. Sanders, age 95, Jonesborough, passed away Monday, November 30, 2015 at the Preston Place One in Kingsport.
He is survived by a daughter Ramona Wise and her husband Will. Grandchildren Chad Dykes (Melanie), and Lance Dykes (Julie) and five great grandchildren: Madison, Kelsey, Dylan, Gracie, and Lillie Dykes. A sister Mary Sue Fitzgerald and three brothers Clifford and wife Minnie Bell, Clifton, and Joe Sanders as well as several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years Ama Dean Chase Sanders; parents, Abraham Jackson and Hattie Ella (Hall) Sanders; a sister Gladys Douglas; brothers Haskel, Bill, N.J. and Wallace Sanders. Six sisters-in-law Lucy Begley Sanders, Patsy Fitzgerald Sanders, Virginia Barnes Sanders, Wanda Estep Sanders and Sarah Eva Goodman Sanders; and two brothers-in-law Clinton Fitzgerald and Bob Douglas.
Jim graduated from Boones Creek High School where he played various varsity sports. He lived in Harmony Community most of his life and was a member of Harmony Baptist Church. He worked in various industries and retired from Rental Uniform. However, cattle and farming were his life-long avocations and the activities he enjoyed most. He was known for his ability to judge the quality of cattle and his opinions were continually sought throughout his retirement.
Funeral services will be held at Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home in Jonesborough 1:00 pm Thursday, December 3, 2015. Family visitation will start at 12, Noon. Ministers officiating will be Pastor Wayne Baker and Pastor Tom Phillips. Interment services will follow at Harmony Cemetery. Music will be provided by Carlene Eastridge.
Pallbearers will be Jeff Barr, Marty Hayes, Tommy Hale, Boyd Hodges, Brian Robbins, and Tommy Waddell. Honorary pallbearers will be W. L. Jones, Larry Belas, B. J. Robbins and all nieces and nephews.
The family extends gratitude and appreciation to long-time caregiver and special friend Brenda Garst, to Amedisys Hospice staff, and to the staff and nurses at Preston Place One.