Michael Ray Sanders' Obituary
Michael Ray Sanders, long time Spotsylvania County resident and local daisy enthusiast, died peacefully at his home surrounded by family on June 30, 2023 from colon cancer.
Michael was born in Middleburg, VA on May 24, 1962, to Betty Jane Beavers Shifflett and Meredith Wilton Shifflett. Michael was fortune to be blessed with many people to call parent, including Betty’s second husband Elden “Lyal” Farmer and his adopted parents Rev. Aubrey Carter Sanders and Betty Smith Sanders.
Michael married Suzanne Elizabeth Greene Sanders in 1991. Together they had two children, Clarissa E. Sanders and Richard C. Sanders III. Prior to their marriage, Michael served his country as a U.S. Marine from 1982 to 1988. Michael spent much of his career as a mechanic, but truly found his passion as the General Manager of Earl’s True Value. When not at work, Michael spent his time with his beloved Jack Russells watching the deer in his backyard or playing trumpet with several different ensembles including the Fredericksburg Big Band. Whether at work, on stage, or at home, Michael could always be counted on for a good laugh.
Michael is survived by his wife Suzanne Sanders; two children Clarissa Sanders and Richard C. Sanders III (Victoria); his mother Betty Farmer; siblings Sherri Young, Lawrence Shifflett, Dee Cox, Beth Pike, Nita Mitchell, Edmund Farmer, Michelle Kane, Tom Bailey, Steve Greer, and possibly others. He is preceded in death by his parents Rev. Aubrey Sanders, Betty Sanders, and Lyal Farmer, as well as his brother Meredith Shifflett, Jr.
The family will receive friends Thursday, July 6, 2023 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel of Fredericksburg, 10719 Courthouse Road. A funeral service will be held on Friday, July 7 at 1 p.m. at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel with interment following at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, Michael requested that donations be made to the Menokin Foundation (PO Box 1221, Warsaw, VA 22572).
What’s your fondest memory of Michael?
What’s a lesson you learned from Michael?
Share a story where Michael's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Michael you’ll never forget.
How did Michael make you smile?
