Bobby Dale Sanders, known to most as Bob, born in Bartlesville, Oklahoma on October 17, 1928, lived all his life in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lemmie and Dora Sanders and siblings Max and Donald Sanders and Ruth Canady. Shortly after high school, he joined the Army serving during the Korean War. He was stationed in France from 1950 through 1952.

After serving in the Army, Bob began working for JCPenneys as the Display Manager. He loved his work and decorating the store for the holidays. His desire to decorate for the holidays also carried over in his personal life. His children and grandchildren will all remember the wonderful holiday displays inside and out at the Sanders home. When computers became part of his job, Bob knew it was time to leave. He never wanted to learn about computers and therefore, retired after 33 years with Penneys.

Bob and his first wife, Lucille, had a son, John Robert Sanders (Brenda). Unfortunately, Lucille passed away shortly after, in the spring of 1970, due to cancer. And in October 1975, Bob married Arlene Miller. They were inseparable and Bob was a very loving and caring husband for over 40 years.

In addition to marrying Arlene, Bob took on three daughters; Judy Rodkey (Jack), Debra Jacoby (Steve) and Sharon Robinson (Don). Needless to say, this was quite an adjustment and a challenge for both Bob and son John. But Bob, being the patient and gentle man he was, did this with a smile and never voiced any complaints (except one time when helping middle daughter, Debra to pack). He loved all his children and was always there to help. Whether it was helping John buy his first car, or trying to understand his new three very strong willed daughters or "the Miller girls" as they were called. Life was not always easy, but Bob handled it all with a smile. We think he loved every minute of being the father of a son and three daughters and all their pets.

Bob also left 7 wonderful grandchildren; Shannon and Stephanie Jacoby, Brian and Kevin Rodkey, Rachel and David Robinson and Owen Sanders. Bob adored his grandchildren and they adored him, many affectionately calling him Bobba. He was a very, very proud grandparent. He used to brag on their accomplishments to anyone who would listen.

Anyone who knew Bob knew that he was the kindest, gentlest, and most loving man on this earth. He would do anything to help others and loved Arlene, the kids, the grandkids and all the pets more than anything. But he also had a passion for helping others and taking care of those in need. As an example... he had a very dear friend who we called "old Bob". Bob would visit Old Bob weekly and do errands such as grocery shopping. When "old Bob" went to a nursing home, Bob was right there once or twice a week to visit. Most people thought Bob was "old Bob's" son since he was there so often. After "old Bob" passed, Old Bob's real son (not sure if old Bob's son or the minister), wrote Bob a thank you card. Those written words truly sum up Bobby Sanders. I would like to quote that card which Bob always kept in his Bible...

"Bob, I just want to tell you how much I admire you for your kind devotion in your constant care of "Mr. Bob". Hero's like you never get the attention they deserve and I for one want to salute you and thank you for your supreme effort.

The good Lord has a special place for people like you and I know there will be many "stars in your crown". Enjoy your life after being relieved of this constant care."


Bobby Sanders truly has "stars in his crown". He was always there to take care of everyone, especially his wife Arlene. It was unfortunate when he fell and broke his jaw a few weeks ago. He was on a liquid diet and one of Bob's favorite things in life was eating, primarily Chicken Fried steak and Coney's. During his time in the hospital and rehab, he would often say... I just wish I could have a steak.

We know that Bob lived a wonderful life and we also know he is in heaven smiling down on everyone, especially his family. He was very proud of them all --- his wife, his kids, his grandkids and yes even all the pets. We all will miss Bob very much but know he is at peace in heaven with many stars in his crown. And, it was exactly like Bob to have his final spoken words be to his best friend for the past 40 years and love of his life, Arlene, as he simply ended with "I Love You".

Visitation will be 10:00A.M. - 4:00 P.M., Monday, February 15, 2016 at Moore's Southlawn. Service will be 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, February 16, 2016 at Moore's Southlawn Chapel, 9350 E. 51st, Tulsa, OK. Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233