Robert Lee Sanders

June 13, 1952 – August 8, 2026

Robert “Hippie” Sanders, 74, passed away at his home in Mt. Holly, NC, on August 8, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rebecca Lucille Sanders and James Logan Sanders; his brother, Rocky and sister, Hattie and his wife, Carolyn Sanders; and his son, Wayne Sanders.

Robert is survived by his sons, Rodney Sanders and wife, Mandy; Robert Sanders Jr.; Scott Philbeck; Jabo Self; and his daughter, Vicki Philbeck. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Brittany Brown (Chris), Emily Wilson (CJ), Damon Sanders, Harley Sanders, James Sanders, Chasity Rivers, Nicholas Rivers, and Raigan Sanders; and his great-grandchildren, Jasmine, Mason, Maci, Tyler, and Bryson.

He also leaves behind his brothers, Carrol, David and Charlie; his sister, Faye, and her husband, Dave; as well as many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Robert was born in Macon County, NC, to parents who worked as sharecroppers and farmers. As a young man, he moved west, where he worked cutting timber. He also served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Throughout his life, Robert worked in the cotton mills, where he formed many lifelong friendships, drove trucks cross-country, and later worked in construction.

According to Robert, his greatest accomplishments in life were marrying Carolyn, raising a family, and eventually earning his favorite title of all—“PawPaw.”

At Robert’s request, there will be no traditional funeral service. Instead, his family will honor his wishes by spreading his ashes at the beach, a place that held special meaning to him. His family and friends will gather privately at a later date to celebrate his life, share memories, and honor the man they loved.

Robert will be remembered for the life he lived, the people he loved, and the memories he left behind.