Frank Barrett Sanders 84, of Atlanta, GA joined his Heavenly Father on July 6th 2019 after a courageous battle with cancer. Barrett was born January 30th 1935 to Thurman and Lucy Sanders (Smith) of Bronwood, GA.
Barrett was a graduate of Terrell County high school (1953) where he was an active member of the 4-H club, football co-captain and named most dependable, courteous and handsome. He attended Middle Georgia College, and earned an Industrial Management degree from Georgia Tech. While studying at Georgia Tech, he also served as Lieutenant in the Army Reserves.
Barrett is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 63 years, Betty Speir Sanders and their four children: Dwayne (Sharon) of Peachtree City, GA, Phil (Barbara) of Milton, GA, Jeff (Krista) of Ft. Worth, TX, and Tricia (Kevin) Moye of Grayson, GA, as well as, their eleven grandchildren: Maria (Matt) Pritchett, Candice (Zach) Kearney, Catherine Sanders, Michael Sanders, Corrine Sanders, Jonathan Moye, Rebecca Moye, Alexis Sanders, Julia Sanders, Brighton Sanders, Olivia Moye and great-granddaughter, Emerson Pritchett who all affectionately called him Doodle. Barrett is also survived by his younger brother, Kenneth (Ida) Sanders of Bronwood, GA and their children (Keith, Karen).
Barrett was a successful businessman and began working as a salesman for Mingledorff’s in 1962. He was the founding member of the million-dollar sales club, an achievement he earned 14-times during his career. He became the youngest Vice President of the company, at the time, and was able to travel the world, from Greece, to Canada and even Trinidad. Barrett retired from Mingledorff’s in 2001.
Barrett and Betty were founding members of Briarlake Baptist Church in Decatur, GA where they raised their family. During their 50+ years of membership he served as a deacon, on several committees, lead Sunday school groups, and was on the parking team.
Barrett was an avid sports fan, and enjoyed cheering on the Braves and Georgia Tech. He was an excellent craftsman, making bird feeders, rocking chairs, benches, and a few special wagons and doll beds for his grandchildren. He was a fan of Elvis’ music, an excellent gardener, and had a witty sense of humor. He loved grilling on his Big Green Egg and believed in a strong cup of coffee regardless of the time of day.
Barrett was kind, generous, humble and hard working. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather dedicated to his family and putting others before himself. He has impacted many and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
“My soul finds rest in God; my hope comes from Him. Truly He is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress and I will not be shaken. Trust in Him at all times, pour out your hearts to Him for God is our refuge.” Psalm 62:5-8
Services will be held on Thursday, July 11 at 1:00 p.m. at Briarlake Baptist Church at 3715 Lavista Road, Decatur, GA 30033 Visitation will begin at 12:00 p.m. before the service. The graveside service will be held in Bronwood, GA on Friday, July 12 at 12:00 noon. Memorial contributions may be made in Barrett’s honor to The American Cancer Society or The Alzheimer’s Foundation.
