Bryan David "Pooky" Sanders

Bryan David “Pooky” Sanders, 34, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, passed away on June 27, 2026. He was born on February 3, 1992, in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, to Michelle Smith and the late David Sanders. He grew up in the Tahlequah area and attended both Tahlequah and Keys schools. From an early age, Bryan possessed a natural talent for mechanics, entrepreneurship, and connecting with people.

Bryan is survived by his mother, Michelle Smith; his daughter, Chayne of Grove, Oklahoma; his grandmother, Phyllis Sanders of Tahlequah; his brothers, Todd Alan Seaman and companion Kelsey Anderson of Bentonville, Arkansas, and Jeremy Scott Seaman and fiancée Megan Webster of Bentonville, Arkansas; his sister, Ashley Nicole Seaman and Robert McCollum of Gravette, Arkansas; his beloved canine companion, Brody; along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his father, David Bryan Sanders; his grandfather, Sog Sanders; his grandmother, Banita "Maam" DeRamus; and his grandfather, Jim Sager.

Bryan had a lifelong passion for working on cars and anything with a motor. He built his first car at just twelve years old and later turned that passion into a career as a diesel mechanic working with heavy equipment. He loved the challenge of fixing, rebuilding, and improving machines, and there wasn't much with an engine that he couldn't figure out.

Known for his gift of conversation and larger-than-life personality, Bryan never met a stranger. He had a natural ability to make friends wherever he went and could strike up a conversation with anyone. He was a talented wheeler and dealer from a young age and always seemed to know how to turn an opportunity into something better. As a child, he was also an Oklahoma Kids singer, a memory that brought smiles to those who knew him.

Above all, Bryan will be remembered for his selfless heart. Family was the most important thing in his life, and he was always willing to help anyone in need. Those who knew him often said he would give you the shirt off his back and then call his mama for a new one. His generosity, kindness, and loving spirit touched countless lives and left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Though his time here was far too short, Bryan's memory will live on through the love, laughter, stories, and cherished memories shared by his family and friends. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.