Thomas Wayne Sanders

Born on April 8, 1946, in Pageland, South Carolina, Tommy was the beloved son of the late Grace Graves and Wester Drew Sanders. He grew up in Pageland, where he was a proud member of Zion Methodist Church and an accomplished athlete who excelled in both football and baseball during high school.

A proud American, Tommy honorably served his country as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division for three years, spending one year in Vietnam. His service was a lifelong source of pride, reflecting his deep love for his country and his unwavering faith in God.

Tommy’s greatest joys in life were his family, his faith, and his friends. He is survived by his three children and three grandchildren — Angie Sanders of Glendale, Arizona; Mandy Sanders Chatellier (Hannah & Sam) of Memphis, Tennessee; and Jamie Sanders (Drew) of Columbia, South Carolina.

In 2007, Tommy met Pam Meacham, his greatest love. The two shared countless adventures and built a book of wonderful memories with their families and friends. They were devoted members of Shandon United Methodist Church and the Joy Sunday School Class, where Tommy’s laughter and warmth touched many.

Beyond his love for family and faith, Tommy found great happiness on the golf course with his buddies and in cheering for his beloved Gamecocks — never missing a home football game since 1987.

Tommy will be forever remembered for his generous spirit, infectious smile, and his boundless ability to share love and joy in his home, church, and community. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A celebration of Tommy’s life will be held at Shandon United Methodist Church in Columbia, SC, on Friday, November 21, at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Allen Scholarship Foundation, c/o Shandon United Methodist Church.