Edward "Jay" Sanders, 53, passed away Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at his mother's residence.

Born in Florence, he was the son of Margaret Matthews Sanders and the late Foster William Sanders, Sr.

Jay loved his family deeply as well as his friends.  Those who knew him could see his heart of gold when he greeted you with his loving smile. Jay loved cooking, hunting, and fishing. He hunted at Pinewood Game Club, Pierce Hunting Club, Kelly and Wolf Club and around home with his nephew, Zack Howard. He graduated from the SCSD&B in 1991. He was on the football and wrestling teams. Jay played baseball for many years at Greenwood Park and Tara Village. He also loved spending time at church worshipping his Lord, most often at Palmetto Street Church of God, where he was a member.

In addition to his mother he is survived by his wife of 21 years, Tina Howell Sanders; his daughter, Jaylyn Sanders, his sister, Pam (Gary) Howard; his brother, Rusty (Denise) Sanders; his extended brothers, Bill Llewellyn and Levi Graham; one niece; three nephews; two great nieces, seven great nephews, many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and his canine companion "Smutty" who was like a son. Jay's extended family was Willie and Linda Carter, and Bubba and Marie Salisbury. Jay would tell his family and friends to pray, keep faith, and love, no more ya, ya, ya, same as his father wanted and said.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 noon on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Palmetto Street Church of God. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church.

You are invited to sign the guestbook at laytonandersonfh.com.