Samuel (Sam) Ray Sanders

Samuel Ray (Sam) Sanders 88 of Rowlesburg, went to meet his heavenly father on Sunday, May 7, 2023.

Sam was born September 2, 1934, son of the late Ray and Daisy (Uphold) Sanders.

Sam was a Member of Christ United Methodist Church for more than 50 years.

Sam was a graduate of Rowlesburg High School.  He served his country in the WV Army Reserves as well as serving his community as Mayor of Rowlesburg. He was President and co-owner of Sanders Brothers Lumber in Rowlesburg, WV, a family-owned and operated business for over 62 years.  Sanders Brother’s was selected as the 1996 Preston County Small Business of the Year.  The company was also recognized by the West Virginia Department of Forestry as the 1999 Outstanding Large Sawmill of the Year.  Sanders Brother’s donated lumber to the local community throughout the years, such as to the Covered Bridge in Philippi and Cool Springs Park after disasters. When Sam retired in 2000, he enjoyed spending time in his wood shop where he created many gifts for friends and family as well as donating many items to charity auctions etc.  He also enjoyed riding his side by side, playing with his animals and enjoying his great grandchildren. Sam was a member of A F & A M #165 and Past Patron of Rowlesburg O E S Chapter #127. He belonged to the Osiris Shrine and was selected Shriner of the Year, Morgantown Shrine Club.  He was a founding member of the Preston County Shrine Club.

He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years Esther Elain (Nine) Sanders; Daughter, Cheryl Sterling (Rusty) of Kingwood, WV, 2 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Daughter, Carol Dixon (Bob) of Kingwood, WV, 4 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Son, Scott Sanders (Arlene) of Bruceton Mills, WV, 2 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren, Daughter, Lanay Riordan (Kevin) of Kingsland, GA, 3 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.  Daughter, Missy Starliper (Kevin) of Hedgesville, WV, 1 grandchild.  Bethann Hession (Chris) of Melbourne, FL, 2 grandchildren.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by Wife Emmalee Jane (Hawkins) Sanders, Sister Wanda Joyce Pyles, Brother Jasper Silas (Jack) Sanders and Sister Glenda Gabel.

Sam has donated himself to Parkinson Research in hopes of helping others suffering with this disease. There will be a memorial service later, pending the return of his ashes. The family would like to thank Amedisys Hospice and Madison Center of Morgantown for the loving and wonderful care they have provided.  In Sam’s memory, please consider donating to the Amedisys Hospice or the Parkinson’s Foundation. Online condolences can be made at www.kingwoodfuneralhomewv.com.  Kingwood Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to assist the Sanders family.

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