James F. Sanders

James Foid Sanders (better known as Jim, Jimbo or Big Daddy to his friends and family) passed away peacefully at his home in Norcross, GA on August 28, 2025. Jim was born on January 15, 1943, in Elba, AL to Byron Foid and Lois Clark Sanders. He is survived by his wife Catherine. Together they had four children Blue Velvet (preceded in death), Sean Sanders (Ashley), Velvet Gilchrist (Stacy), Shane Sanders (Stacey Jo) and eight grandchildren (Charlie Sanders (Elizabeth), Seth Sanders, Ben Gilchrist, Noah Sanders, Slade Salatto, Caleb Sanders, Anna Gilchrist, and Ella Sanders). He is also survived by his sister, Joan.

"Do Everything" Jim Sanders graduated from Elba High School in Elba, AL in 1961. As a freshman, he attended Troy University on an athletic scholarship (football). He then enlisted and served in the U.S. Army where he met the love of his life at Fort Benning in Columbus, GA. Settling in Norcross, GA, Jim was employed over 25 years with Eastman Kodak in Chamblee, GA while completing his Bachelor of Science degree at Georgia State University in 1976.

Jim was a true family man selflessly devoting his life to his wife (married 60 years), children and, of course, the grandchildren. He valued family time above all and fostered a loving household. He carried that love to the community specifically serving as coach to many of Gwinnett County's youth in football, basketball, and baseball. He will truly be remembered by the numerous lives changed through sport and his "firstest with the mostest" approach. As a huge sports fan, as well as coaching and mentoring, he enjoyed golf with friends and tailgating and cheering on his Auburn Tigers. Above all he is known as a Child of God through his faith in Jesus Christ. As a result of that faith, the family is thanking God continuously for His love, amazing grace, and the incredible blessings in our lives here and everlasting.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, October 12th, 2025, in the family's hometown of Norcross, GA - see details below:

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes (formerly Breakthrough Type 1 Diabetes (Formerly JDRF)) in his honor; a cause that Jim championed because of the impact type 1 diabetes directly has on his family.

https://www2.breakthrought1d.org/site/Donation2?idb=1364796693&df_id=2374&mfc_pref=T&2374.donation=form1

Date and Time:

Sunday, October 12, 2025

5:00 pm - 7:00 pm (Refreshments will be served)

Location:

The Crossing (Norcross Depot)

40 South Peachtree Street

Norcross, GA 30071

(770) 746-7999