Deloris Ann Sanders

Deloris “Dee” Ann Sanders, born on Sunday, June 8, 1941, in Nashville, Tennessee, went home to be with Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the age of 84. She was the beloved daughter of Ozro Chapman and Mary Elizabeth Harding Chapman.

She shared 38 beautiful years of marriage with her devoted husband, William "Bill" R. Sanders, a partnership filled with mutual support, shared adventures, and enduring love.

She is survived by 6 children--Joey Rodriguez-Chapman, Michael Rodriguez-Chapman (Elizabeth), Maria Rodriguez-Chapman, Marty Rodriguez-Chapman, Bill Sanders, Jr., and Mike Sanders (Yvonne). 17 grandchildren-- Alex Sanders, Ashley Sanders, Summer Sanders, Alyssa Sanders Ezell, Natalie Rodriguez-Nelson, Matthew Rodriguez-Nelson, Kenny Degenhardt, Matthew Degenhardt, Joseph Rodriguez-Vondal, Jonathan Rodriguez-Vondal, Jessica Vondal, Jasmine Vondal, Dawn Vondal, Brianna Vondal, Desirae Vondal, Aaron Vondal, Alica Vondal, and Angel Vondal; and many great-grandchildren. She is also survived by a sister, Judy Gouldener.

She was preceded in death by a son, Ken Sanders, a grandchild, Danielle Vondal, her parents Ozro Chapman and Mary Elizabeth Harding Chapman, a sister Edith Hampton, a brother James “Buddy” Chapman and a brother John “JM” Chapman.

Dee lived a vibrant and joyful life, enriched by her adventurous spirit and deep capacity for love. In her early years, she was fortunate to travel extensively around the world, experiencing diverse cultures and creating cherished memories that shaped her warm, open-hearted outlook. She brought light wherever she went, blessing everyone she encountered with her contagious smile, infectious laughter, and genuinely happy nature. Her positivity was a gift that touched countless lives.

Dee was a beloved member of the Red Hat Society, where she earned the affectionate title of "Queen Mother." In this role, she delighted in organizing events filled with fun, camaraderie, and abundant laughter, ensuring every gathering was a celebration of friendship and joy.

Above all, Dee cherished her role as a grandmother and aunt. Her grandchildren and nieces and nephews were the light of her life, and she poured her heart into creating special moments with them—whether through storytelling, making her famous homemade goulash, or quiet times filled with hugs and wisdom. She delighted in their growth, celebrated their achievements, and offered unconditional love that will forever remain in their hearts.

Deloris Ann Sanders leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and unwavering positivity. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, fellow Red Hatters, and all who were fortunate enough to know her radiant spirit. Being a devout follower of Jesus Christ and sharing that with everyone she knew, we trust that she is resting peacefully and rejoicing in the arms of the Lord.

A visitation will be held at Forest Lawn Funeral Home on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Following the visitation, a Celebration of Life will take place at 2:00 pm.

Deloris will be laid to rest in the Garden of Devotion II at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.