Tommy Sanders

Tommy Sanders was born in Claremore, OK, on May 9, 1936, and raised in Bunch, OK. At age 11, his mother, Josie Waterdown passed away. After her death, his stepdad Jess Waterdown and aunt Lucinda Waterdown raised him.

At the age of 19, Tommy joined the Navy and was stationed in California. Much to his disappointment, he was medically discharged a little over a year later.

On April 9, 1972, Tommy married Evette Joy Harding, and in 1976, they adopted their precious son Scott Michael Sanders.

Tommy and Evette worked with the Cherokee Children's Mission for many years. He loved the Lord and teaching the Bible, and in 1976, he attended Rhema Bible Training Center where his love for the Lord grew even more. He loved sharing it with everyone who would listen to him. He held positions such as teacher and deacon in several churches over the years.

His work career consisted of several positions with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, then some construction positions, and finally as a machinist for 21 years before he retired.

After retirement, he did more fishing, gardening, working on his 1967 Ford truck, and woodworking. He also enjoyed Cherokee gospel music and encouraged many to learn his native Cherokee language.

Tommy was preceded in death by his mom Josie Waterdown, his son Scott Michael Sanders, his Aunt Lucinda Waterdown and Jess Waterdown, and many others.

He leaves to cherish his memory:

His wife of almost 53 years, Evette Joy Sanders, daughter, Shirley Cochran (husband, Perry Cochran), two grandsons, Phillip and Noah Cochran (and their children), and his bonus daughter, Sherry Lasley (husband, Don Lasley).

Also, he wished to express his love and gratefulness to all of the Ellis and Mallie Sanders family, both those here and those who have preceded him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to Cherokee Children's Mission by visiting their website at https://www.cherokeechildrenmission.com/ or calling 918-696-1478.