Shirley Draffin Sanders

Shirley Sanders, 89, of Gilbert, passed away on December 10, 2024, at her home. Born in Columbia, SC, Shirley was the daughter of the late Leonard and Sadie Free Draffin. She shared 36 cherished years of marriage with her late husband, James Keown Sanders, before his passing.

Shirley was a dedicated member of St. Andrew's Lutheran Church, where her warm spirit and love for people shone brightly. Her natural affinity for connecting with others led her to a fulfilling career in customer service at Dutch Square Mall, where she worked for over 20 years. Above all, Shirley was a devoted and loving mother, treasuring her time spent with family and friends.

Shirley’s family finds comfort in knowing she is reunited with her husband and parents. She leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Surviving are her daughter, Jamie Ann Sanders; son, Pressley Draffin Sanders (Martha); along with a brother, James Pressley Draffin (Linda); niece, Trinette Draffin Zirkell (Steve) and nephew, Jason Todd Draffin (Justyna).

The funeral service for Mrs. Sanders will be 11:00 AM Friday, December 13th at St. Andrew's Lutheran Church,1416 Broad River Road, Columbia, SC 29210, with burial following in the St. Andrew's Lutheran Church Cemetery, 421 St Andrews Rd, Columbia, SC 29210. Pastor John Trump will officiate. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the church's parlor.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Andrew's Lutheran Church.