Lewis Hudson Sanders

Lewis Hudson Sanders, 88, of Stephens, GA, passed away on February 27, 2025. He was born on May 17, 1936, to the late Robert H. Sanders, Jr. and Janie Sorrow Sanders. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Joyce S. Parker, and brother-in-law, Larry Parker; his brother, Jere Sanders, and brother-in-law, Willie H. Adkins; as well as his son-in-law, Mike Power, daughter-in-law, Melanie Sanders, and niece, Patricia Parker.

Lewis graduated from Oglethorpe County High School in 1954 and he enjoyed maintaining these friendships through high school reunions and trips through the years. In the fall of 1956, he met Harriet Parker on a blind date, and the couple married on October 25, 1957. Their marriage was the foundation of a partnership that lasted for nearly seven decades. After their wedding, they lived with Lewis’ parents until their home in the Stephens area was built. In 1959, they welcomed their first child, Lewis Phillip, followed by Daniel Hudson in 1961 and Lisa in 1964. Family was always central to Lewis' life, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

For a brief time in the early 1960s, Lewis and Harriet lived in Swainsboro while he worked in the logging business. He later transitioned to logging sales, where he worked for several years before beginning a full-time farming career in 1970. In the early 1980s, he shifted his focus to dairy farming, and his two sons joined him in running the business until his retirement in 2017. Over the years, he took great pride in providing for his family through his hard work, building a legacy of dedication and resilience that would inspire future generations.

After retiring, Lewis enjoyed building birdhouses, “piddling” around the farm, and spending time with his family, including his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Known for his wonderful sense of humor, he loved telling jokes and bringing laughter to those around him. Lewis’ lighthearted spirit was felt by everyone who knew him, and his warmth and kindness left a lasting impact on all who crossed his path.

Lewis was also a devoted member of Salem Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon, Sunday school superintendent, and teacher. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he devoted much of his time and energy to his church community. He believed in the importance of service, not just to God, but to his neighbors as well.

A dedicated husband of 67 years to Harriet, Lewis was a loving father to his three children, a proud grandfather to his nine grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, and a cherished friend to many. His unwavering love for his family and his commitment to his community will continue to inspire those who knew him.

The funeral service is Sunday, March 2, 2025, at 4:00 PM at Salem Baptist Church with Rev. Brett Mask officiating. The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. The interment will take place in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that gifts be made in his memory to either St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org/) or Extra Special People Inc. (https://espyouandme.org/).

Survivors include: Wife of 67 years, Harriet P. Sanders; children, Phil (Melanie) Sanders, Danny (Karen) Sanders, Lisa (Mike) Power; nine grandchildren, Justin (Katlyn) Sanders, Trevor (Kim) Sanders, Maisie (Jesse) Carter, Jillian (Walker) Baylor, Hudson (Jenna) Sanders, Stewart (Sarah) Sanders, Claire (Matthew) Kinnard, Emily Power, and Sarah (Jared) Hayes; eleven great-grandchildren, Riley Sanders, Elise Sanders, Leanna Sanders, William Sanders, Cole Sanders, Adelyn Carter, Gunner Carter, Landry Grace Sanders, Robert Sanders, Aaron Sanders and Elizabeth Sanders; sister, Rachel Adkins and several nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers are: grandsons Justin Sanders, Trevor Sanders, Hudson Sanders, Stewart Sanders, Jesse Carter, Walker Baylor, Matthew Kinnard, and Jared Hayes. Honorary pallbearers are Salem Baptist Church Deacons.

Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes, East, Athens, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com