Terry Eugene Sanders was born on July 24, 1968, in Rockwood, Tennessee, and departed this life on April 17, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Terry was a loving, kind, and thoughtful man whose presence brought comfort and joy to his family and friends. He was a Christian who lived with faith and humility, and his life reflected the values of compassion, loyalty, and devotion to those he held dear. He was known for the warmth of his smile, the sincerity of his spirit, and the steady way he showed up for the people in his life. His memory will be treasured by all who were blessed to share in his journey.

He was preceded in death by his father, William Ralph Sanders; his step-father, Authur Mastin; his grandmother, Julia Cardelia Martin Dawson; his grandfather, Willie B. Dawson; his aunt, Cathy Dawson; and his sister, Betty Ann Dawson. Though their earthly journeys have ended, their love and influence remained a part of Terry’s life and helped shape the man he became.

Terry is lovingly remembered by his mother, Doris Dawson Sanders Mastin; his children, Laron Sanders, Kiara Sanders, Adrian Sanders, Chatara Sanders, Tashyra Phillips, Terry Eugene Sanders, Jr., Talan Lee, Trey Sanders, and Alexis Sanders; his twin sister, Sherry Sanders; his sister, Deanna (Scottie) Ward; his brothers, Antonio Dawson, William (Ellen) Ralph Sanders, Jr.,Kelvin Inman, Frank( Mary) Simmons ; and a host of nieces and nephews, including Donna Rae Harris, Bianica Taylor, Alonzo Douglas, Asante Ward, Artaveus Dawson, Keenen Ward, Keyonna Ward, Charles Ivy, Timothy (Brandy) Sanders, Aliyah Sanders, Kyrah Sanders, Tyrah Sanders, Naiyah Sanders, Antonio Sanders, and Kiara Inman, Tyreek Ray, Alissa Eddie and Skylar Simmons. He also leaves behind his aunts and uncles, Benny Dawson, Alice Moore, Nathan (Darlene) Dawson, Nathaniel Dawson, Judy Dawson, Julia Anderson, Zenia (Phillip) Wells, Frances Burum, Mary Ann Patterson, and Ricky Cozart, along with a host of grandchildren, great-nieces, great-nephews, close family members, and friends. His lifetime friends, Gary Johnson, James Witherspoon, and Jimmy Johnson, will also hold his memory close.

Terry attended Roane County High School and proudly graduated with the Class of 1986. After high school, he answered the call to serve by joining the United States Army, an experience that reflected his sense of duty and commitment. Following his military service, he later worked at Oak Ridge Hospital, where he transported patients to physical therapy and served others with care and respect. His work ethic and dependable nature were evident in all that he did, and he carried himself with quiet strength and dignity.

Terry had a deep love for UT Football and enjoyed watching as many games as he could. He also loved cars, and that interest brought him joy throughout his life. These simple pleasures were part of the personality that family and friends came to know and appreciate. He found happiness in the things he loved and shared that joy with those around him.

Those who knew Terry will remember him for his loving heart, his thoughtful nature, and the kindness he extended so freely. He was a man who valued family, friendship, and faith, and he leaves behind a legacy that will continue through the lives of his children, grandchildren, and all who loved him. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will remain a source of comfort and strength.