Douglas Lee Sanders

Douglas Lee Sanders

June 20th, 1965 - September 15th, 2024 

Born to Martha Steelman Sanders and Olin Lee Sanders on June 20th, 1965 (Father’s Day).

After a long progressive illness and a traumatic fall while in a rehabilitation center, Douglas entered heaven on Sunday morning. There he was embraced by his earthly father, Olin Sanders, who has been waiting for him since 2006. Douglas is survived by his mother, Martha Sanders of Jonesville, and three siblings: Kim Myers (Benny) of Hamptonville, Lisa Everette (Jim) of Wilmington, and Scott Sanders (Angie) of Fayetteville, NC. Beloved nieces and nephews: Ashley Morrison (Matthew) of Elkin, NC, Taylor Myers (Rebecca) of Raleigh, NC, Megan Barbour (Joshua) of Wilmington, NC and Jonathan Everette (Mary Clifton) of Wilmington, NC. Doulgas had a special love for all his great nieces and nephews: Jack, Paige, Sam, Everette, Nolan, James, Brooks, Annie and Charlotte along with a large family of cousins and his special canine companion, Gabby.

Douglas graduated from Southview High School in Fayetteville, NC, attended Appalachian University and received his culinary degree from the Art Institute of Houston, Texas. Douglas made a name for himself in the restaurant and hospitality industry. During his career he was instrumental in developing and managing many successful restaurants in Wilmington, NC. When Douglas returned to his native Yadkin County, he helped establish a new local grape and wine tourism business. Douglas taught courses at Surry Community College and managed several local tasting rooms, event venues and restaurants. Douglas also spent a period cooking Wednesday night supper at Elkin First Baptist Church where his recipes became legendary. 

Douglas believed in hard work and dedication. Love of family and friends was Douglas’ biggest motivation. He enjoyed ministering to others and volunteered at Grace Clinic, Parkwood Place, and sat with folks who needed a friend. Douglas was happiest in the kitchen and shared his creations with everyone he loved. His life touched many and we will miss his bright smile, compassionate nature, and Chicken and Dumplings.

Douglas loved beautiful flowers but would be the first to say he would prefer you donate in his memory to the Grace Clinic in Elkin, NC or Mountain Valley Hospice in Yadkinville. There are truly angels who walk among us every day.

A memorial service will be held at Flat Rock Baptist Church in Hamptonville, NC on the Wednesday, September 18 at 3:00 pm by Rev. Dr. Jim Everette and Rev. Dr. Joey Tomlin. The family will receive guests for a time of sharing stories and refreshments in the fellowship hall immediately following the service.

The Sanders family is being served by Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville, NC.