Ray was born on March 24, 1946 in Jacksonville, NC to the late Norwood and Dorothy (Aman) Sanders. He was raised in Richlands, NC until moving to Havelock in 1953. Ray married Anna Ruth Sanders in July of 1992, and together they were blessed with five children.
Throughout his life, Ray was a very active member within his community. He served as the Fire Chief for Havelock Fire and Rescue from 1976-1979 and was a member of the Havelock Jaycees and other community organizations. In addition, Ray was a longtime volunteer with Religious Community Services of New Bern, and was a founding member of his church, Cherry Point United Methodist where he remained active throughout most of his life. Ray’s happiness was found in the joy of children and he loved working with area youth, serving as umpire and coach for Babe Ruth of Havelock and New Bern and for the Havelock and New Bern Little Leagues, as well as coach for the Brinson Youth League Basketball, Upward Basketball New Bern, and the youth bowling association (YABA).
Ray’s spirit will be cherished and forever live on through his children: Gary (Maureen) Sanders of Marietta, GA; Debbie (Greg) Sabin of Havelock, NC; Christy (Jeff) Brotherton of Mooresville, NC; the late Joshua (Brett) Prince of New Bern, NC; and Jeremy (Courtney) Tavares of New Bern, NC. Ray also leaves behind 13 grandchildren: Rick, Colleen, and Frank Sanders; Gregory and Sierra Sabin; Dylan, Ryan, and Sadie Brotherton; Logan, Tyler, and Andie Prince and Cami Knowles; and Sutton Tavares. Ray is survived by his two siblings, Jimmy (Cherrie) Sanders and Pam Holder, both of Havelock. He is additionally survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. Family was always a priority in Ray’s life, and he had close relationships with all of his relatives. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 2, 2019 at 2:00 pm at Cherry Point United Methodist Church, 103 Methodist Dr, Havelock. The family will greet friends at the church on Saturday from 1:00 pm until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cherry Point United Methodist Church.
Arrangements by Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory. Online Condolences may be made to the Sanders Family at www.cottenfuneralhome.com
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