Sam was born on July 14, 1934, in San Antonio, Texas to Samuel R Sanders Sr. and Laura Mae Kuykendall Sanders.
A proud sailor, Sam served two deployments as an airman in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. While stationed in Jacksonville, Florida, he met and married his "Sunshine", Martha Hall. Together they raised three loving daughters: Christi Sanders, Peggy Oliver, and Susie Jordan.
In the 1060's, Sam and his family made their home in Donelson, Tennessee. There, he poured his heart into providing for those he loved - always dreaming up new ideas and turning them into reality. Whether working with Opryland, crafting his famous Elvis Bears, or running his screen-printing shop, Sam's creativity and determination left a lasting mark on everyone around him.
Sam was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Martha Sanders; his parents, Samuel and Laura Mae Sanders; his sister, Willie Sue Williams; and his daughter, Peggy Oliver.
He is survived by his sister Linda Sue Sanders; daughters, Christi and Susie; grandchildren, Liza, Courtenay, Amanda, Joseph, and Samuel; and great-grandchildren, Faith, Avery, Garrett, and Ruby.
There will be a Gathering of Family and Friends on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Hermitage Funeral Home, 535 Shute Ln, Old Hickory, TN 37138, followed by a Graveside Service at 2:00 PM.
Fond memories, words of comfort and expressions of sympathy may be left for the Sanders family by selecting the "Add A Memory" tab below or by visiting www.HermitageFH.com
