Robert Lee Sanders, 60, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, transitioned from this life on January 15, 2026, at Lutheran Hospital, surrounded by love.

Robert was born on October 17, 1965, in Marion, Alabama, to the late William “Tim” Sanders and Louise “Lil Ma” Sanders. He later made Fort Wayne, Indiana his home, where he lived much of his life and built lasting relationships within his family, church, and community.

Robert was a hardworking and dedicated man. He was employed at Newman Foundry for over 20 years and later with Jack Cooper Transport for more than six years. He took pride in providing for his family and was known as a man of integrity, loyalty, and strong work ethic.

A devoted servant of God, Robert was a faithful member of Friendship Baptist Church of Fort Wayne, where he proudly served as an Ordained Deacon and Usher. He had a deep passion for sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and joyfully spoke of his faith everywhere he went. His unwavering commitment to church service and evangelism left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

In his leisure time, Robert found joy in fishing & hunting. He loved being outdoors and cherished moments spent with family and friends. He will be remembered for his contagious smile, generous spirit, strength, faithfulness, and love for others.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, William “Tim” Sanders and Louise “Lil Ma” Sanders; brothers, Lee Sanders, Freddie Sanders, Ronnie Sanders, William Townsend, and Walter Fincher; and sisters, Louise “Bird” Burnett, Annie “Tot” Sanders, and Shirley “Cookie” Walker.

He leaves to cherish his memory beloved daughter, Yakira Sanders (Las Vegas, NV); brothers, James Sanders (Tennessee), David (Paula) Sanders, William Sanders, Louis Townsend, and Loveless Townsend; sister: Peggy Hagler, sister-in-love: Fannie Sanders, brother-in-love: Johnny Walker, special friend: Donna Carter-Hardy and a host of uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Friendship Baptist Church, 451 East Douglas Street, Fort Wayne, Indiana.