James Albert Sanders

James Albert “Jabber” Sanders, age 88, of Johnson City, TN passed away peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior on May 22, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family. James was born September 13, 1935, in Piney Flats, TN to the late William B and Venia Torbett Sanders. In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Linda Fay, his brother, Bill A. Sanders, and his son-in-law, Terry J. Burleson.

 He married Shirley J. Elliott on April 22, 1960, and they were happily married for 64 years. In addition to Shirley, he is survived by his daughters: Lisa Sanders Burleson; Lori Sanders Lloyd and son-in-law David Lloyd; grandchildren Haley Burleson Jones (Bill Jones), Matthew J. Burleson (Emily Burleson); great grandchildren Harper Jones, Annarae Jones, Reid Burleson, Ada Burleson, and Iris Burleson. 

 In 1954, he graduated from Mary Hughes High School with high honors. Immediately following he enlisted and proudly served in the United States Navy for four years on the U.S.S. Coral Sea and U.S.S. Randolph CVA 15. Upon honorable discharge he attended and played basketball at Milligan College and was known as “Big Jim”.

 He worked as a dedicated employee for the United States Postal Service and retired after 34 years. He was a faithful member of Piney Flats First Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and loved to sing in the choir. He also served at his local Ruritan Club. His other hobbies included a passion for gardening, woodworking, his koi pond he built, watching his UT Vols play any sport, playing with his companion dog Lucy, and spending time with his family, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. 

 He will be remembered for his honorable service, his infectious smile, making people laugh, and cheering on his UT Vols. He will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.

There will be a graveside service at Edgefield Cemetery (745 Pickens Bridge Road Piney Flats, TN 37686) on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 3:30 pm. Dr. Allen Davis of Piney Flats, TN will be officiating the service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations in James Sanders’ memory to Piney Flats First Baptist Church (100 Cherry Rd. Piney Flats, TN 37686.)

 Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com.

Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is serving the Sanders family. (423) 282-1521