Bertram Carson "Bert" Sanders

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Bertram "Bert" Carson Sanders.

Bert, 68, of Tallahassee, FL, passed away on August 18, 2025, after a 5 year battle with lung cancer.

Born on July 17, 1957, in Brooksville, FL, he was the beloved son of Solomon Sanders and Hazel Lee Balloon Sanders.

He grew up in Crystal River, FL. In his early years, Bert attended George Washington Carver Primary School, only a few minutes walk from his home. At that time, the schools were segregated, and they were integrated in the mid-sixties. He still enjoyed playing on a makeshift baseball field and basketball court; sharing a room with two brothers; and hiding from thunder and lightning. While attending Crystal River High School (Go Pirates!), Bert played trombone as a member of the band.

Bert graduated from the illustrious Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University with a Bachelor's degree in Animal Science. He remained a lifelong fan of the football team, often traveling out of town to attend games like the Orange Blossom Classic and Florida Classic with his brother and son to cheer on the team and enjoy the iconic Marching 100 halftime shows.

Bert was a dedicated lead lab technician at St Marks Powder for 38 years and known for his strong work ethic, attention to detail, and "Safety first!" mindset.

Bert lived to make people laugh, go to Applebee's, Friday's, and Corner Pocket with his twin brother, and spend time near the water, especially beaches along the Gulf of Mexico. He was a devoted father of two, never missing a chance to see his kids play volleyball, basketball, or football.

He is survived by his twin brother, Bernard Sanders; his sister, Artenia "Joy" Jones and her husband Arnold Jones; his loving wife of 25 years, Gayla Sanders; his children, Jarred and Dr. Jasmyn Sanders; his nephew Kendrik; his nieces, Quanysha P. Jones and Artesia Simpson; his goddaughter Ashontis Pace; his brother and sister-in-love, Terry Bradwell and Victoria Funes; his dear companion, Karen Smith; his St. Marks Powder work family; his close friends Dillard, Carlton, Courtney Cooper, Ed Brock, Lemuel Watkins Sr, Robert Manning; and his long-time barber Robin.

A private celebration of life "fish fry" will occur at 2 PM Saturday, August 23. If Bert meant a lot to you and you'd like to attend, please reach out to one of his family members via phone or social media for the address.