Theresa Dawn Sanders

Theresa spent much of her life in Nashville before moving to the Knoxville area to be cared for by her family. Her final years were characterized by the comfort of home and the deep bond she shared with her children and grandchildren. Beyond the deep love she held for her family, she had a special place in her heart for her cats, who were her constant and faithful companions. She will be remembered for her quiet, constant strength; however, her greatest light remains the selfless love she gave as a mother. She was the heart of our home and the greatest gift her sons ever received.

Theresa’s legacy lives on through her family. She is survived by her mother, Nancy Whidby; her two sons, Neal Sanders (Misty) and Jacob “Tyler” Sanders (Cymone Samuels); and her four grandchildren, Brandon, Brianna, Ethan, and Evan. She also leaves behind her siblings, Lynn Womack (Houston) and Thomas Whidby Jr. and their families. She now joins her beloved father, Thomas Whidby Sr., who preceded her in death.

Service Information:

Family and friends are invited to gather and share memories of a life well-lived during a period of visitation on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home - Library Room.

A celebration of life and Memorial Service will be conducted at Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 11:30 AM with graveside burial following. The family will receive guests for an additional visitation period two hours prior to the service, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM.

Memorial Contributions:

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to The Assistance Fund (tafcares.org), reflecting her commitment to helping others fight chronic diseases.