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Dr. Reginald Drew Sanders

FUNERAL HOME

Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemeteries

5100 Pontchartrain Blvd.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Reginald Sanders Obituary

Dr. Reginald Drew Sanders (Reggie) passed away on Saturday November 28, 2015 at the age of 68. He was a native of Kentwood, LA, graduated from Kentwood High School and LSU Medical School. He served the New Orleans community as a dedicated rheumatologist for the last 40 years. He was the beloved husband of Caroline Bingham Sanders of Baton Rouge for 42 years. He is survived by his 94 year old mother, Mary Elizabeth Sanders of Kentwood, his brothers Dr. Charles Woodford Sanders, Jr. of New Orleans, Bruce Wayne Sanders of Boulder, CO, and his sister Dr. Sherri Lynn Sanders of Austin, TX and a treasured family pet, Suzette (Bichon Frise). He is preceded in death by his father, Charles Woodford Sanders and a brother, Phillip Gregory Sanders, who died as an infant. During the past ten years, he courageously fought battles with cancer, but still retained his unique wit, intelligence, and joy of living and learning until the very end and tenaciously lived life to the fullest. He delighted in sharing his expertise and knowledge with others. He was a member of several carnival organizations, a devoted LSU fan and was somehow able to find something positive even in bleak circumstances. He was devoted to his family, friends, patients, colleagues, as well as his church family. Without fail, Reggie went above and beyond in all areas of his life, whether personal or professional. His was truly a life well lived. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 3rd at 3:00 pm at Munholland United Methodist Church, 1201 Metairie Rd. Visitation with the family and a reception will follow immediately in the Fellowship Hall at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in memory of Reginald Sanders to Munholland United Methodist Church or to the charity of your choice. To view and sign the guest book, visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The New Orleans Advocate from Dec. 1 to Dec. 3, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Reginald Sanders

Sponsored by Caroline.

59 Entries

Guiann Carpenter

May 7, 2016

Dear Caroline,
Just heard about Reggie. I am so sorry for your lost. I wish there was something to say to ease your pain. I will always remember his smile. It seems like just yesterday when he bought his purple Porsche during his internship at Earl K Long. He was a very special person. I am glad to say I knew the both of you
Love Guiann

April 15, 2016

I just found out about Reggie last night. My heart goes out to you. I am so saddened for your loss. Reggie was so much fun and such a wonderful person. I never worried about you since you had found your soulmate. After Mama died, a friend told me that eventually the tears would be replaced with smiles when you think of her. I promise that will happen with you and Reggie. He was such an inspiration to all of us with his courage, inspiration and passion for life. He was a wonderful doctor and a wonderful role model. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Beth Bingham Cenac

Paula Rabalais

March 6, 2016

Dear Caroline,
I have thought of you and
Reggie many times in the past three months. I was saddened to read, in early December, that he had passed away.
My fondest memories of Reggie were in connection with France-Amerique. As the president who was my immediate predecessor in that office, Reggie was my principal mentor. Whenever I was uncertain as to how to proceed in a meeting or an event, I would think of how Reggie had handled a similar situation. Sometimes I would consult him directly via email or in conversations that preceded France-Amerique meetings.
Reggie was always patient, kind, and enthusiastic, which I appreciated immensely.

With sincerest sympathy,
Paula Rabalais

David Naccari

January 12, 2016

Reggie was a man who had a very positive influence on my life. His ever present wit, charm, and pleasant smile were a tonic that would make any person feel better. I met Reggie and his lovely wife, Caroline, through Toastmasters were he was an example of both dedication to self-improvement and enlightened leadership. There is a special place for him now in that big lectern in the sky. :)

January 11, 2016

I just found out today when I was scheduling my 4 month visit with Dr. Sanders. I'm so shocked and saddened with this loss. He was a great doctor, confidante and sweet person. I'm in shock because he was doing so well. He never let on that he was battling this awful disease. He made a hugh difference in my life and I thank God for him. He will be missed and will always have a place in my heart. Rest Dr. Sanders and your imprint on this earth will live forever.

Debbie DeGruy Gordon

Gail Prevost

December 20, 2015

I'm sorry for your loss. Dr. Sanders was one of a kind! He taught me how to manage my back pain and live an active healthy life without relying on medications. I'll always thank him for that. My husband and I both will miss him.

Constance Willems

December 14, 2015

Dearest Caroline, Reggie was a friend of many years. He was always interested in a number of topics, including our lives and travels. He and Caroline were always together and a wonderful couple. Reggie was also my doctor and he was so dedicated. He is one of the few doctors who really spend time with you. Casey and I are very sad that Reggie passed on, but we will remember him many times for his gentle humor, his love of food and travel. Our fervent wishes for lots of strength for Caroline.

Veolia Hawkins

December 11, 2015

Dr Sanders was my Rheumatologist for the past two. He was one of the most caring and sensitive physicians that I have ever met. I will truly miss him. At one point while in pain I emailed him at 10 o'clock on a Sunday night by 8 a.m. on Monday morning he had replied. He was truly dedicated to his profession. I pray blessings and strength upon his family.

Robert Songy MD

December 11, 2015

Reggie- Sorry I'm late. Been in Texas. I just talked to you recently and you did me, and a patient a huge favor. You didn't have to, but you did. Just like the Reggie who I sat next to in Physiology Class at LSU Med School. A giving guy and a great doc. I will miss you, "podna". I'm sending you something in heaven this weekend. Hope you like it. Bob

Mary Ann Mathis

December 10, 2015

I just had a call from Bill and was told that my sweet Dr Sanders had passed away. My heart broke, he was one of a kind. He listened cared and more importantly believed. He returned a call on Christmas when I was in horrific pain, apologizing for taking so long, took care of my issue, called the next day to check on me! They don't make them like that anymore! He always answered my portal texts or phone calls no matter time or day! I had surgery three days after seeing him, and he contacted me concerned with my labs and wanted me to come in when I was released because of his concern. He said we have more investigating to do, because something is wrong, he wanted more tests because he wanted answers! I feel like I have lost my warrior in this fight to find the answers I need, he wouldn't give up til he found answers for me, and now sadly he is gone. To his family and co workers and friends, I offer my prayers, I can't imagine your loss, because I know how deep mine is. Thoughts and prayers are with you all! We truly lost one of the best in everything in life. Rest in sweet peace Dr Sanders! I will forever be grateful for your presence in my life and your search for the truth and answers.

Denekia P

December 10, 2015

Praying for your family. It was a pleasure to work with such a great doctor.

December 9, 2015

I read all the beautiful entries although I was never a patient.I knew of him since I went to a doctor in his bldg.He must have been wonderful, and a scarcity in his profession! We should have more like him. Cynthia

Helen Barrington

December 9, 2015

Oh my I had no idea that Dr. Sanders had moved to his heavenly home! When it was suspected in 1996 that I might have RA, my internist said he would send me to someone good that was not too far from my office. I will miss our conversations and sharing of good books to read. I look forward to seeing him again one day.
Please accept my condolences.

willliam coe

December 7, 2015

reggie was a great friend. our time spent with dorians activities were a great joy. he will be missed. my thoughts and prayers are with the family. unfortunately I was out of town and could not attend the funera

Jack Cunningham

December 7, 2015

Reggie was a great guy and a very good friend. I have many fond memories of him. I am keeping everyone in my prayers during this difficult time.

Jack Cunningham

Kay Rizzo

December 7, 2015

As a patient and a friend, I will miss Reggie every day. So sorry I was unable to attend his memorial service do to illness in my family.

December 6, 2015

I was very sad to hear about Dr.Sander's death, he has been my rheumatologist for over 30 years, and has been my strength during this time and kept me moving and living my life. My internist asked me to choose between the serious one, and the happy, jolly one and so I chose him and have never regretted it. He was always full of life and laughter, never too busy to ask how my son was or talk about the symphony in New Orleans, the LPO, of which my son was a member. He always had and offered hope, he was an inspiration to many, and will never be forgotten by anyone who knew him. He had the joie de vivre, and lived his life to the fullest. He did even when knew he had a fight to go through, he never changed. He was the same dear friend he had always been. I know all of his patients will miss him as I will.
I want to take this opportunity to give my condolences to his dear wife, Caroline, his whole family, his many friends, and his office staff for their loss.

Bambi Courtney

December 6, 2015

When Bill called me from the office to tell me Dr. Sanders passed, I was in disbelief. I have been a patient of his for several years. Dr. Sanders has been the most knowledgable, caring, compassionate doctor I ever met. He saw me through a flesh eating bacteria that nearly took my life. I underwent 14 surgeries in a month. He put up with my indecisiveness regarding getting back on immunosuppressive meds. He tolerated my craziness every time I was in his office. He researched for months to try to find a way to help me with the least chance for recurring infection. We just recently decided on a medication. Now I feel lost without him here. I pray I find a doctor as loving as Dr. Sanders. I will miss him dearly. I cannot imagine going back into that office on my next visit and not see him. I cried for a least 30 minutes after Bill's call. I will never forget him. Your family will be in my prayers.

Rosswella Chiasson

December 5, 2015

My sister, Janice and I will surely miss Dr. Sanders. He has been my doctor for over 26 years. He has helped both of us tremendously. It will never be the same. He always cared about the whole person and not just health wise. I would like to express my sympathy to his wife, siblings and staff. May our Lord hold him in his loving hands. He and his loved ones will be in our prayers.

December 5, 2015

Let not the cup of pain overflow the heart but seek for joy that remains in memories made sweeter by living and knowing that loss is heaven's gain. Mrs. Caroline...your
husband, Reginald, will be in our
memories always. Alvin and Julia Collins

Marion Stafford

December 4, 2015

Caroline, I wish I could have been there with you for the memorial service today. Although I was not his patient, Reggie's influence on my life has extended from this Bible study teachings to his witness in many other areas. You are in my thoughts and prayers, and I hope to visit with you whenever I can make a trip back to New Orleans. With deepest sympathy, Marion

Mark Workman

December 4, 2015

I was very saddened to hear that Reggie had passed away. I first met him in 1976 when I was an intern at the University of Missouri and he was doing his Rheumatology fellowship. 5 years later we were both working at the Mahorner clinic starting one day apart; somehow, he was given the nicest office in the building and I got the closet with the bullet hole in the window. Reggie was an excellent rheumatologist who helped me on multiple difficult patients. And he was a joy to just converse with. He will me missed.

December 4, 2015

Our prayers are with you at this difficult time.Greg and Sandy Komendanchik

Brenda Delle

December 4, 2015

Caroline, I did not see the obituary until after the memorial service or I would have attended. My thoughts and prayers are with you. He was a very special person.

Kelly Evans

December 4, 2015

My deepest sympathies to Dr. Sanders family, friends and colleagues. He has been my Dr for the last 7 years. I will greatly miss his compassion, kindness, understanding and wealth of knowledge that many of us found comfort in.

Susan Granger

December 4, 2015

Dr. Sanders was a wonderful, caring physician. He will be very missed. My condolences to his family.

Oscar del Portal, MD

December 4, 2015

Reggie was my teacher in medical school 36 years ago and my wife's doctor for the last 10 years.His wisdom and wit will be missed. Condolences to the family. Thank you, Reggie.

Frances Treadway

December 3, 2015

I went to Dr. Sanders for the past 12 years. I will truly miss him.

Barbara Maroney

December 3, 2015

Caroline, my thoughts and prayers are with you. Reggie was a very special person and I will always remember the kindness shown to me by both of you. He shall be missed.

December 3, 2015

Reggie will be missed. I am blessed that he was my fiend, Bible study leader,and a wonderful physician.

Reuben Chrestman

Anita Miaoulis

December 3, 2015

Chris and Anita Miaoulis extend sympathies to Mary Elizabeth and the rest of the Sanders family.
May Reggie rest in piece.
Dr. And Mrs Chris Miaoulis

Robert Hall

December 3, 2015

Thank you for helping me during my years of pain with rheumatoid arthritis.you will be missed.god bless you

Peggy and Eddie Sapir

December 2, 2015

Caroline, I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Sanders. He was an incredibly gifted physician who was so thoughtful and kind. Reading the messages here you can see how beloved he was to so many. Eddie joins me in sending our heartfelt condolences to you and the entire family. May you find comfort in the years of memories you made together and knowing that you will see him again one day.

Joan Soboloff

December 2, 2015

I absolutely adored him not only as my favorite physician but as my friend!

Jim Reynolds

December 2, 2015

Reggie will certainly be missed. His friendship was treasured. he was always a joyful companion, a true friend and companion, and a trusted and wonderful doctor--I speak not only as a friend, but also one of his patients.

I think Reggie was the first person I knew who had a portable computer!

Reggie was always a stalwart Dorian, one irreplaceable. His was a wonderful life--perfect except for being curtailed. Undeniably, his absence will be heartfelt, but remembering him and his irrepressible joie de vivre will be joyful and inspiring.

Jim Reynolds

December 2, 2015

When I first came to Dr. Sanders, I was so frustrated with how my body betrayed me. I was suffering from a disease that stripped hope from my life. Dr. Sanders gave me back " hope and encouragement" to fight back. My life is not the same as before Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, but it is again a rich life that I am able to live fully thanks to Dr. Sanders. Words fail me. There is no way I can write the words to convey what he gave to me. Dr. Sanders was not only my doctor, but over 20 plus years he was a friend. To His family and staff, I don't have to tell you how wonderful he was since I know you know. To his wife Caroline, I had the pleasure to meet you at Peppermill six months or so ago, and I told you then how much I love and adored your husband. I'm so sorry for your loss. Carolyn Warden

Peggy Laborde

December 2, 2015

Reggie so loved New Orleans and Mardi Gras! Always appreciated his joie de vivre!

Sharon Zeringue

December 2, 2015

I have read some of the messages left here for the family and thought I knew exactly what I would say to you Caroline but it seems everyone who knew Dr. Sanders felt the same way as I do. He was a remarkable human being to know. He always knew the right things to say to me no matter how bad the day was for me. I know certainly he was the smartest person I have ever met. I often wondered how he turned his mind off at night. I will miss his comfort, his jokes, his sharing of knowledge or books we have read or just his asking about my family and life in general. He was the complete epitome of what a doctor is and should be. I will forever be grateful for the care and understand you gave to me Dr.Sanders. I will miss you terribly. Fly high Ignatius Reilly you most certainly have earned your wings.

Vicki Scallan

December 2, 2015

Dr. Sanders was one in a million. He truly cared for his patients and always greeted us with a smile. He took his time to discuss whatever was bothering you and did not mind sharing personal things with you. I will truly miss being a patient of his and also seeing him on our trips to Langensteins. My condolences to his wife, mother, family and staff. Heaven has truly gained an angel. God bless you all. My prayers are with you. Sincere thoughts and blessings.

James White

December 2, 2015

Reggie was a dear friend, and the smartest guy in our medical school class. He will be missed by many. He maintained a style and grace to his practice, mixed with compassion and love for his patients. My deepest condolences to Carolyn and the whole family. Jim White.

Geary Mason

December 2, 2015

Reggie was an inspiration and positive influence on all who had the honor of knowing him. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

john watermeier

December 2, 2015

So sorry to hear of Reggie's passing.He was truly remarkable in his charm and wit.Always available to talk with.And the smartest student in our med school class.

Marjorie Britt

December 2, 2015

Bob and I were so sorry to hear of Reggie's passing. Our prayers are with Caroline and the entire Sanders family.

Cheryl Dean

December 2, 2015

Reggie's laugh, intellect, and his Bible Study teachings will be missed. He was truly a unique and gifted individual which I will never forget. He was my Barnabas! Caroline, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Cheryl Dean

Nadine Segari

December 2, 2015

I'm so sorry for your loss, Caroline. Reggie was a fine man and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Kay Wittenberg

December 2, 2015

We will truly miss you Reggie. Mardi Gras will not be the same! I have enjoyed your teachings in Sunday School. I know the gates opened wide when you arrived. We will take care of Caroline. Peace and love.

Phyllis Martin

December 2, 2015

I have been a patient of Dr. Sanders since 1993 he was the one who diagnosed me with fibromyalgia and treated me with special care when all other Doctors would tell me the pain was all in my head.
I thank him for his care and he will be greatly missed.
My condolences to his family and friends.

Al Roux

December 1, 2015

Dr Sanders was a true Gentleman. His Witt was unrivaled. A lively conversationalist with a strong sense of history and a passion for many things dear to New Orleanians. He will be sorely missed. Deepest condolences to Caroline, his family and his staff.

Glenda Redler

December 1, 2015

My heart felt condolences to Reggie's family. He is truly one of God's angels now. He touched my life by taking my phone in Sunday School and putting the Bible on it for me. I will always be grateful . He was a good man and great teacher.Love in Christ ! Your spirt lives forever!

Clara David

December 1, 2015

Dr. Sanders will be greatly missed. I went to 3 other drs before I finally found him. I was ready to give up trying to find out what was wrong. All the others just kept saying they didn't know. But Dr. Sanders just kept looking until he finally found that I have RA. He listened to his patients and didn't make you feel like it was all in your head. It will be hard to replace him as a Dr. He was one of a kind. Your family is in my prayers.

Millie Zylicz

December 1, 2015

Dr. Sanders diagnosed me with Rheumatoid Arthritis about 1990. He always gave me hope and a smile. I loved that when I went for my checkups it wasn't all about arthritis. He always asked about my family and we shared Suzette and Nanette stories. My sincere condolences to you Caroline; he spoke of you often. I feel I have lost a very dear friend and a wonderful doctor! Millie Zylicz

Larry Howell

December 1, 2015

Dr. Sanders was truly what a physician should be! He cared for his patients not only professionally, but personally. He diagnosed my beautiful wife as having Scleroderma after many others said it was all in her head! That was over 40 years ago! My wife had cancer surgery last December. Dr. Sanders called her to offer his thoughts and prayers. That is the only voice mail I have on my home phone! My wife passed from complications of her surgery on September 5th of this year - her 69th birthday! I know they will both be looking after thosed they loved so much My prayers and sympathy go out to his family! A donation is being made to the Scleroderma Foundation.

December 1, 2015

Dear Caroline and members of the Sunday Bible Study group, I am saddened to read of Reggie's passing. I know he is enjoying his reward in heaven for living a good life. Sandy Hintz

Tammy Balli

December 1, 2015

Dr Sanders became my guardian angel 15 years ago and has been my blessing. I am so proud that I was one of his patients and feel sorrow in knowing I will never experience such a professional individual as him again. My prayers and condolences go out to Ms Carolyn and the entire staff. Visits to the office will never be the same without his wit and humor to brighten the day.

Flavia Alleman

December 1, 2015

My heart is heavy and words cannot express how much Dr. Sanders will be missed. I've been a patient for 23 years and I could always count on Dr. Sanders thru the good and bad. He was a very caring person. I loved his whit and compassion towards others. My condolences to his wife Caroline, his family and his staff.

Shawna Bonstaff-Sisung

December 1, 2015

Dr. Sanders, you were an amazing man. You treated my mom, Cheryl Bonstaff, for over 30 years. Because of you, I was able to grow up with my mom. My family cannot thank you enough for the care you gave my mom. You were not only her physician, but a friend. There are not many doctors like you. You will always hold a special place in our hearts. My mom, dad, sisters, and myself will miss you. To the Sanders family, you had a fantastic person in your life. Thank you for being a family of a physician. My family is forever grateful for him. Your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

C. J. Arceneaux

December 1, 2015

I have been a patient of Dr. Sanders for 15 years. He was an amazing physician, very caring and giving. He will be sadly missed. My prayers to his sweet wife Ms. Carolyn and his family and staff for peace and comfort at this time.

Lynn Bonomo

December 1, 2015

Dr. Sanders was the best physician I ever had. I have only been a patient of his since July 2015 but it only took one visit to see that he was genuine and truly concerned about not only my health but getting to know me as a person. He will be greatly missed and unreplacable. Thoughts and prayers to his family and friends for the loss of such a special man and physician.

December 1, 2015

My thoughts and prayers go out to Dr. Sanders family. I was a patient of Dr Sanders for about 14 years. He was caring and always had time to listen and talk about anything. I will miss him greatly.

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