Herbert L. Sanders, Jr.

Herbert L. Sanders, Jr, a long-time resident of Baytown, died peacefully in his home on June 8, 2018, at the age of 91. He was born at home on August 11, 1926 in the Big Sandy community in Polk County, Texas. After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, he and his new bride Bennie moved to Baytown in 1948 where he began working for Humble Oil & Refinery as a pipefitter. Known to co-workers as “Smiley”, he retired in 1986 after 39 years of employment.

Mr. Sanders was preceded in death by his lovely wife, Bennie Hendrix Sanders; parents H.L. Sanders, Sr. and Hattie Freeman Sanders; brothers R. Luby Sanders, E. Wayne Sanders, Douglas M. Sanders, Sr. and Doyle Sanders; sisters Doris Brewer and M. Grace Walker.

He is survived by sister, Merle Graves; children: Randall Sanders and wife Nancy, Keith Sanders and wife Tina, Troy Sanders and Dwana Sanders; grandchildren: Tyson Sanders and wife Laura, Jill Sanders, James Sanders, Zachary Bates and wife Brittney, Kayli Carroll and husband Brett, and Cody Sanders; great-grandchildren: Keira Sanders, Ava Carroll, Haylee Sanders, Oliver Carroll, and Fynlee Sanders; beloved nieces and nephews, and a host of friends.

Mr. Sanders was a member of Trinity Assembly of God Church for many years and served as a deacon for several terms. In his later years, he attended Victory Temple Church where he played harmonica with the band. He was faithful in tithing and giving towards missions. He touched many lives. With his welcoming smile, he never met a stranger. He had a very giving spirit. He graciously shared his delicious homemade peanut brittle, bags of hand-picked, shelled pecans, and blackberries with family and friends. He often sat in lawn chairs on his driveway, waving at everyone and offering bottled waters or soft drinks to sanitation workers and just about anyone walking by. For several years and up until recent months, he also loved to play his harmonica for residents of the local nursing homes. He was a Godly man, and a wonderful husband, father and friend. He will be sorely missed!

Visitation will be Wednesday, June 13, 2018, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Navarre Funeral Home. Funeral service will be held at Trinity Assembly of God Church, 1008 E. Lobit, Baytown, TX 77520, on Thursday, June 14, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. with nephew Rev. Gerald Dickerson officiating. Graveside service will follow in the Big Sandy Community Cemetery at 3:00 p.m. with nephew Lynn Hendrix officiating. His grandchildren will serve as pallbearers.

To view the online obituary or to post a tribute for the family, go to www.navarrefuneralhome.com

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Navarre Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 2444 Rollingbrook Dr., Baytown, TX, 77521 (281) 422-8111.