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David Everette Sanders, Sr. lived a life defined by love, faith, and generosity. Born in Barnwell County to David and Myrtis Black Sanders, Everette built a legacy rooted in family, hard work, and devotion to his church. For 42 wonderful years, he shared life with his beloved wife, Elizabeth “Libbus” Sanders. Everette loved horses and found joy in tending Sanders Hay Farm. He was a skilled craftsman and builder, first as the owner of Sanders Construction Company, where he remodeled homes and restored historic buildings across the Carolinas, and later as a maintenance technician at the Savannah River Site until his retirement. His work reflected his care for people and his pride in creating something lasting and resulted in many deep friendships.
Faith was the cornerstone of his life. As a lifelong member of Mt. Lebanon Christian Church, Everette gave freely of his time and spirit, finding strength in his church family. He was known for his kindness, his willingness to lend a hand, and the way he made others feel valued.
In addition to his parents, Everette was predeceased by his daughter Mylinda Sanders and two sisters: Jean Hair and Margie Nell Zissett.
He is survived by his loving wife, Libbus; his children, Myranda Sanders O’Neal, David Everette Sanders, Jr. (Audry), Lisa Rutherford Firmender (Gary), Robert William Rutherford (Patty), and Carlos Wayne Rutherford, Jr. (Sheryl); his grandchildren: Dan Gunnells, Wendi Hughes (Cameron), Mark O’Neal, Matt O’Neal (Ashley), Samantha Oswald (Jacob), Nicole Beasley, (Logan), Makenzie Sanders, Josh Rutherford, Missy Redding (Scott), Wil Firmender (Eimee), 16 great-grandchildren, one great, great-grandson who brought him endless joy; his sister, Vera Bodiford (Jerry); and his faithful four-legged companion, Rascal. Everette’s family is deeply grateful to his dear friend Troy Brant, nephews Jody Bodiford, and Mike Zissett for their care and support always, but especially during his illness; and to Gary Firmender who supported him in his medical journey.
The visitation will be held from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm on Sunday November 30, 2025 at Folk Funeral Home in Williston. The funeral will be held at Mt. Lebanon Christian Church in Barnwell at 11:00 am Monday December 1, 2025.
The funeral wagon will be driven by Luther Googe and Amber Gunnells. His legacy is one of love, generosity, and faith, all qualities that will continue to guide those who knew him. Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Lebanon Christian Church Ladies Class (PO Box 268, Barnwell, SC 29812 or the American Cancer Society www.cancer.org.
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