Darnell Sanders "Charlie"

Mr. Darnell “Charlie” Sanders, devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on Saturday, November 15, 2025, in Saginaw, Michigan. He was born on November 6, 1955, in Saginaw, Michigan, to Tommie L. and Charlene Waters-Sanders.

Charlie, as he was affectionately called, was a resident of Saginaw and attended Saginaw Public Schools, graduating from Saginaw High School, Class of 1973. He attended Ferris State University, was affiliated with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and was a member of St. Paul Episcopal Church. Charlie was employed by General Motors for 35 years, retiring in 2005. He enjoyed fishing, bowling, and football, especially watching his favorite team, the Minnesota Vikings. Most of all, Charlie loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them. He will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Surviving Charlie are his loving wife, Mary Lou Sanders; two sons, Michael (Kristin) Brooks, and Sidney Brooks-Sanders, Saginaw, Michigan; grandchildren, Azia Brooks, Amari and D’Adrian Rodgis; one great-granddaughter, Azaela; two sisters, Linda (Grady) Holmes, Saginaw, Michigan, Dawn (Anthony) Sanders-Scott, Chicago, Illinois; one brother, Larrie (Valerie) Packard, Saginaw, Michigan; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Charlie was preceded in death by his grandparents, Berniece Waters, James Harrell, Lillie and Willie Sanders; parents, Tommie L. Sanders and Charlene Waters-Sanders; uncles, Joseph Sanders and Willie Sanders; sister, Cheryl James; brothers, Darwyn, Drew, and his twin, Darrell Sanders.

The family wishes to express special thanks to Covenant HealthCare and Hospice, supportive family and friends, and Reverend Dr. Delaney, Pastor of St. Luke CME Church, for providing spiritual comfort during Charlie's illness.