Mary W. Sanders

Mary Wims Sanders, loving mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 18, 2022, in Dublin, Ohio, at the age of 92. Mary was born on April 1st, 1930, in Franklin, Kentucky and grew up in Orlinda, TN. She spent most of her life in Atlanta, GA. Mary was the daughter of Thomas Jefferson Wims and Winnie Davis Jernigan. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert Noel Sanders; son, Thomas Leroy Sanders; sister, Geraldine Porter; and her niece, Penny Taylor. Mary is survived by her daughter, Susan Sanders Gardiner (Bob); six grandchildren, including Susan’s sons, Rob Gardiner (Stephanie), Steve Gardiner (Katie), and Dan Gardiner (Jessica); Tom’s daughters, Allison Sanders (Pete), Blair Sanders and Jordan Hokett (Danny); as well as her nieces, Pat Ellis (Laz) and Pam Wilson (Randall). Mary will be missed by her family and friends, including her longtime friend, Bart Decoster. Mary was a classic true southern lady with a warm heart, loving smile, memorable southern accent, and a special twinkle in her eyes. Mary and Bob moved to Atlanta from Tennessee, where she lived in the same home for sixty years. She loved bringing family together and welcomed friends making them a part of the family. She used her wisdom and charm to make everyone comfortable, often including cooking everyone’s favorite Mary recipes. She was active in her church, enjoyed playing bridge, gardening, and meeting friends at the nearby Chick-fil-A. Mary was a secretary, sold Avon cosmetics, worked at Safeco Insurance and American Greetings, while being a mom was the most fulfilling to her. Her passion for many years was going to garage sales and collecting treasures! A special thanks to all the folks at Brookdale Trillium Crossing and Capital City Hospice for their compassionate care. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.