John Johnson Sanders, Jr.

John Johnson Sanders, Jr.

January 14, 1942 – October 26, 2026

Mount Airy, North Carolina

John Johnson Sanders, Jr., affectionately known as “Johnny,” of Mount Airy, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on October 26, 2026, at the age of 84. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, successful businessman, accomplished athlete, and respected member of the community, Johnny lived a life filled with family, friendships, sports, and a genuine appreciation for the people around him.

Born January 14, 1942, at the family home in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, Johnny was the son of John Johnson Sanders, Sr., and Reba Sue Cook Sanders. He spent much of his life deeply connected to Mount Airy, a community where he built his career, raised his family, and developed countless lifelong friendships.

Johnny was, in every sense of the phrase, a “guy’s guy.” He loved playing and watching sports, enjoyed the company of his friends, and had an easygoing personality that made people naturally gravitate toward him. His grandchildren often joked that he must be running for mayor, given the number of people he would greet and stop to chat with whenever he left the house. He was the kind of man who was genuinely liked by everyone and whose company was always enjoyed.

Athletics played an important role throughout Johnny’s life. A talented multi-sport athlete at Mount Airy High School, he continued his athletic career playing college football at Catawba College. His accomplishments on the field and his contributions to Mount Airy’s rich athletic tradition earned him induction into the Greater Mount Airy Sports Hall of Fame in 2012, an honor that reflected his lifelong love of sports and his connection to his hometown.

Johnny’s passion for sports continued long after his playing days, particularly through his love of golf. An avid golfer, he enjoyed the competition, camaraderie, and friendships that came with the game. His family will forever cherish the hours spent enjoying a round of golf with him. Johnny and Sonnie also loved watching college football and basketball together, enthusiastically cheering on the schools of their grandchildren. A steadfast supporter of his family, Johnny never missed one of his grandson’s high school football games in the Lake Norman area.

Professionally, Johnny was a successful and respected businessman who served as president of Sanders Electric Company and Inman Electric. Through his leadership, dedication, and commitment to his work, he contributed to the growth and success of these businesses and earned the respect of colleagues, employees, customers, and fellow business leaders throughout the region.

His commitment to Mount Airy extended well beyond his professional life. Johnny served on the board of Planters Bank and the Mount Airy ABC Board and was involved with Hope Valley and Mount Airy High School. He was also associated with the Masonic Lodge and the Lions Club. Through these activities, he generously shared his time, experience, and leadership with the community he was proud to call home.

Above all, Johnny’s greatest source of pride was his family. He shared his life with his beloved wife, Sandra Inman Sanders, affectionately known as “Sonnie,” and together they raised their two children, John Scott “Scott” Sanders and Christie Sanders Warren.

Johnny is survived by his wife, Sandra “Sonnie” Inman Sanders; his daughter, Christie Sanders Warren, and her husband, Dr. Eric Scott Warren; his grandchildren, Dr. Eric Scott Warren, Jr., and his wife, Helen Warren, Emily Claire Warren, and Jackson Scott Sanders; and his sister, Frances Sanders Cox, and her husband, Maxwell Ives Cox, Jr., of Dadeville, Alabama.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, John Scott Sanders, who passed away in 2013, and his parents, John Johnson Sanders, Sr., and Reba Sue Cook Sanders.

Those who knew Johnny will remember far more than his accomplishments. They will remember an honest, confident man who valued his friendships, loved a good game and a good conversation, and brought light into the lives of those fortunate enough to know him. Whether on the golf course, around town, or gathered with family, he appreciated the moments that make life meaningful. His warmth, good nature, and genuine enjoyment of others left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He remained an incredible role model until his final days, and his memory will continue to guide the lives of his family and friends.

Johnny leaves behind a legacy of family, friendship, community service, and a life well lived. His contributions to Mount Airy will be remembered, but perhaps his greatest legacy will be the many people who simply considered him a good friend, a husband, a father, and, most affectionately, “Papa.”

He will be deeply missed by his family, his friends, and the community he loved.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Oakdale Cemetery with Reverend Jay Meadows officiating. No formal visitation will be held. 

In lieu of flowers memorial contribution may be made to Mountain Valley Hospice and Palliative Care, P.O. Box 325, Dobson, North Carolina 27017, First Baptist Church, 714 North Main Street, Mount Airy, North Carolina 27030, or to the Michale J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown, Maryland, 21741.

Moody Funeral Services in Mount Airy has been entrusted with the arrangements.