Bobby Dewayne Sanders

Mr. Bobby Dewayne Sanders, 39, of Woodbury passed away after an extended illness on September 4, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee. He was born in Murfreesboro, Tennessee on September 11, 1985. He was preceded in death by his father, Ray Robert Sanders and by a brother, Douglas Sanders.

He is survived by his mother, Wanda Sanders, daughter, Julianne Hodge, brothers, Robert Sanders, Richard Sanders, Michael Sanders, and Aubrey Sanders, also by nephew and nieces, Connor Tucker, Brianna Sanders, and Beatrice Sanders, and by one grandchild.

Ray and Wanda were blessed with a big family. Bobby being one of six siblings, all boys made for a very interesting and energetic home life. That being said he fell right into the mix and came out all boy. He worked on making his mark in the group by being an outgoing and fun-loving person. Telling funny stories and playing the role of the jokester suited him best because he liked to keep everyone smiling and laughing.

Bobby discovered that the natural tendency for a boy to have a short attention span didn’t skip him. School unfortunately, didn’t keep his interest, so he decided to give up school and find his own way in life. He enjoyed working with his hands and hard work didn’t faze him at all. He landed a job laying block with Brian Hazel’s construction crew. Later on, he worked for the Higgins family helping keep up the car wash and flea market grounds.

Growing up his interests tended to revolve around being outdoors and nature. He was most at peace when he was walking in the woods. Being able to surround himself with the beauty and tranquility of God’s creation. He loved to walk all over town, and you would often see him just wondering around collecting cans. Wherever he went, if he saw you needed help, he wouldn’t hesitate. He had a good heart and wanted to do what he could for folks.

When he was young his parents wanted him to have a foundation in belief in God. They attended church at New Hope Baptist Church in the Big Springs community. Making sure he knew who created the beautiful nature he loved so much. Even though he was a man’s man through and through, he was also very close to his mother. He loved her dearly and she kept him under her wing. Over the years he lived with her all but about three months of his life. She watched over him and helped take care of him as his health deteriorated. The love of a son and mother is a special bond that ties them together for eternity. Now he can rest in peace, joining family who have gone on before and waiting for the others to join them.

Bobby's wish was to be cremated.  Due to his extended illness the family is asking for donations to assist with the funeral expenses.  Share condolences and stories at www.gentrysmithfuneralhome.com.  Gentry-Smith Funeral Home, 303 Murfreesboro Rd. Woodbury, TN 37190, 615-563-5337.  Because every life has a story.