Delbert A Sanders

Delbert was born November 29, 1935 to his parents Ernest H. Sanders, Jr. and Mary Shambeck Sanders in Lubbock, Texas. He did not have siblings, but enjoyed friends and family gatherings while growing up in Wilson, Texas. He graduated salutatorian from Wilson High School and was the first of his family to attend college.

At Texas Tech University, Delbert was a member of Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity and was a member of the Air Force ROTC. He graduated in 1959 with a Bachelors Degree in Industrial Engineering. While at Tech, he dated and later married Helen Ethridge (Sanders) on January 31, 1959. Following graduation, he began his Air Force military duty where he served in Houston and New York, primarily involved in computer programming for NASA. During this time, he and Helen began their new family with the births of their daughter, Sheryl, and later their son, Steve.

Following discharge from active military duty, Delbert and his family returned to Lubbock in 1965 where he developed his career as manager of Lubbock Glass and Mirror, Co. During this time, he remained in the Air Force Reserves for an additional 23 years where he earned the rank of Major Delbert A. Sanders.

Delbert was a very dedicated and loving husband, father, and friend to many. He was an active member of Shepherd King Lutheran Church where was a Stephen’s Minister and served many years as congregational chairman. He was very involved with his family, participating in years of school activities, coaching athletics, Boy Scouts, and always offering encouragement.

Through the years of his life, Delbert most valued and enjoyed the many personal relationships he developed through church, business and social activities, including the years of square dance events he valued with Helen. These relationships allowed him to give to others but also gave him strength during difficult challenges, such as the passing of his daughter, Sheryl, in 2015. Soon after, Delbert and Helen moved from their longtime home in Lubbock to Southlake, TX to be closer to their son, Steve, and his family.

Sadly, Delbert experienced the loss of his wife, Helen, after nearly 60 years. Twelve days later, he passed away to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Delbert Alvin Sanders is survived by his son Steven Sanders, his daughter-in-law Carrie Sanders, his granddaughters Julia and Natalie Sanders, his grandson Ryan Atwood, and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in Delbert’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association.