Kiyo Sanderson

Kiyo Sanderson, 82, passed away on September 4, 2026. Born September 21, 1943, in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, Kiyo carried forward a steady devotion to family and community throughout a life marked by quiet strength and faithful service. Kiyo was a resident of Pensacola, Florida.

Kiyo worked for Johnson Control Contract for the United States Navy and worked in food service. In that role, Kiyo was known for dependable dedication and a practical care for others—work done with consistency, humility, and purpose.

Family was the center of Kiyo’s life. Kiyo shared a marriage of over sixty years with Carl L. Sanderson and was the beloved mother of daughters Deborah Lynn (Bobby) Richardson and Judy Ann Sanderson. Kiyo is also survived by one brother, Kikuo Okamura; five sisters, Kayo Okamura, Takeko Tatowaki, Umeko Yogasu, Sumie Okamura and Kazuyo Fujimoto; and numerous extended family members.

Kiyo found enjoyment in pursuits that brought both friendly competition and simple companionship, including bowling tournaments, time as a golfing caddy and golfer, and Japanese card games. These interests reflected a spirit that valued focus, good humor in the moment, and the lasting comfort of shared traditions.

Kiyo will be remembered with respect and gratitude, and dearly missed by all who had the privilege to know and love her.

Committal services for Kiyo will be held at Barrancas National Cemetery, 1 Cemetery Road, Pensacola, Florida 32508 at 10:30am on Monday, September 28th, 2026.