Ralph Franklin Sanders

Born in Lincoln County, he was the son of the late Mattie Sanders.

Ralph married the love of his life, Annie Warren, when she was only 15 years old. On January 26, they celebrated 65 years together.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Peggy Sanders Thompson (Gene); sons, Keith Sanders (Dot) and Jeffrey Sanders (Sandi); grandchildren, Steve Thompson, Shanon Wilson, Jennifer Neese, Lori Caldwell, Kevin Sanders, Jenilee Sanders; 10 great grandchildren; and a great-great grandson.

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by grandson, Nicky Bryan Thompson and granddaughter, Rachel Frances Sanders.

Ralph was a self-made jack of all trades. He retired from Ticaro (in maintenance) after 47 years.

He loved his family and his Lord. He was a member of West Cramerton Baptist Church. During his lifetime, he served as a deacon and Sunday school teacher and loved telling people about Jesus.

A Celebration service will be held at 2pm Thursday at West Cramerton Baptist Church with Rev. Mike Ivey and Rev. Mike Criswell officiating.

Burial will be at Gaston Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.

Condolences may be made online at www.carothersfuneralhomegastonia.com

Carothers Funeral Home, Gastonia is serving the Sanders family