George Edward "Sonny" Sanders, Sr.

George Edward Sanders, Sr., lovingly known as “Sonny,” passed away on July 24, 2025 at the age of 80 years old surrounded by the family he cherished so deeply.

Born on May 15th 1945, Sonny was a hard-working and dedicated man who spent many years as a truck driver before building his own business as a freight broker for trucking companies. He took great pride in his work and was known for his strong work ethic and reliability. Sonny loved Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby.

Sonny is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Viola Sanders, and their two children: Todd Sanders (wife Stephanie) and Kim Newman (husband Charlie). He was the proud grandfather of Tyler Sanders (wife Mackenzie), Austin Sanders, and great granddaughters Stella and Eden Sanders. His family was his greatest joy, and he loved each of them fiercely.

He is also survived by his brother Rick Sanders (wife Peggy), sister Joyce Eggers, sister Caroline Dearing (husband Bill), and brother Mike Sanders (wife Kim), as well as being the favorite uncle to many nieces and nephews, and his beloved dog, Molly. He was preceded in death by his parents Inez and Cotton Sanders and his brother Gene Sanders.

Sonny’s extended family includes sisters-in-law Lena (husband Chuck), Debra Daniel, and Janice Houk (husband Paul), along with many more family members who loved him dearly.

Sonny was truly one of a kind. He had a gift for making everyone feel valued and loved. His warm smile, quick wit, and big heart touched countless lives. He never met a stranger and was the kind of man who would give the shirt off his back. Above all, Sonny loved his family deeply and completely - they were the center of his world.

He will be missed more than words can say, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A gathering of family and friends will take place from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions (3309 Ballard Lane, New Albany) and on Wednesday after 9:00 a.m. His funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home with burial to follow at Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Sonny's memory may be made to Hosparus - the Community Hospice of Southern Indiana (502 Hausfeldt Lane, New Albany, IN  47150).