Jason Clay Sanders

If you had the honor of meeting Jason Clay Sanders, you encountered one of the most beautiful souls God created. Known as “Jay” by many, Jason was born on April 12, 1977, to Ken and Judy Sanders in Springfield, SC. From a young age, he dreamed of touching the stars and flying like Superman. His childhood was marked by his unwavering love for Superman and Star Wars, evident from his worn-out Superman pajamas and his collection of Star Wars t-shirts, which he proudly wore every day of the week.

Jason was a man whose life was characterized by the close relationships he cultivated and the passions he pursued. He was a beloved son, a cherished brother, a devoted cousin, and a loving husband. His adventurous spirit and kind heart were known to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He was easily recognized by his sweet disposition and captivating blue eyes.

Jason made his home in Bonsall, California, with his beautiful wife, Sarah Sanders. He was a skilled welder and pipe fitter, a trade he learned from his father and practiced across South Carolina to California. However, his true passion and calling were found in the skies. Jason was an avid skydiver, a dedicated coach, a teacher, and a Professional Canopy Pilot. With over 27,000 jumps to his name, he held the Canopy Piloting distance world record at 225.70 meters. 

Jason's love for skydiving was more than just a pursuit of medals and awards. He found immense joy in sharing his knowledge, coaching, and teaching others in the craft. His legacy in the skydiving community will forever echo through the lives of his students and his fellow skydivers.

On February 16, 2025, at the age of 47, Jason made his final earthly flight into the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, gaining his angel’s wings. His faith and belief were unwavering, and he shared his faith with others whenever he could. In skydiving, Jason found a sense of freedom, as he once said, “It’s more like being free, free from everything. When I am up there, I am free of any stress or worries of day-to-day life. Free from everything that is negative that tries to beat you down.”

Jason is survived by his loving wife, Sarah Bernadette Sanders; his parents, Ken and Judy Sanders; his sister, Jennifer Sanders; and his beloved puppy and bug, "Roger Rivers Sanders".  He is also survived by a host of Uncles and Aunts who he adored and many, many loving cousins – his “noonies”. 

He is preceded in death by his brothers, Kenneth Richard Sanders II and Richard Glenn Sanders; his paternal grandparents, Charlie Evans and Iva Mae Jeffcoat; his maternal grandparents, Kenneth Ulyssess “Bo” and Mary Poole Sanders; his Aunt Brenda Kay Sanders Boyd; his Uncle Wallace Jeffcoat; and his Aunt Kathy Yon.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in honor of Jason Clay Sanders to Dean Swamp Baptist Church, 13 Eastview Lane, Springfield, SC 29146. 

Visitation will be held from 6-8 pm on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at Folk Funeral Home, Williston, SC. The funeral service will be held at Rocky Grove Baptist Church in Salley, SC on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 3 pm, followed by burial in Springfield Cemetery, Springfield, SC.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to all the friends and family who have visited, provided food, offered hugs, and shared their prayers. Your support has meant everything during these heartbreaking days. From the bottom of their hearts, they sincerely thank you.

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