Leon Ernest Sanders, 62, of Lake City, passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2026 at the HCA Florida - North Florida Hospital in Gainesville after a sudden illness. He was born in Charleston, South Carolina on July 17, 1964 and has made Lake City his home for the last thirteen years, moving here from Colorado. He worked as a Diesel Mechanic for a little over 20 years, before his health forced him to retire, but that never stopped his love of cars and working on them. He also loved riding his motorcycles, camping, cracking a good joke and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his father, Lorin E. Sanders.

He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Kelli Sanders of Lake City; mother, Marva Luhrs of Anchorage, AK; son, Lance Sanders (Diane) of Olustee, OK; and his daughter, Tiffanie Long (Michael) of Fort White. Six grandchildren, Marie Sanders(14), Guinevere Sanders(12), Alexandria Sanders(12), Arthur Sanders(10months), Andrew Long(7) and Autumn Long(6) also survive.

A funeral service for Mr. Sanders will be conducted on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. in the Hopeful Baptist Church with Dr. Billy Young officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation beginning at 10:00 A.M. prior to the service at the church. Arrangements are under the direction and care of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S. Us HWY 441, Lake City, FL, 32025, 386-752-1954. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.

Leon wanted us to celebrate his life when he passed, let's do so in wearing his favorite color Red instead of the traditional black and grey.

In lieu of gifts or flowers, the family kindly asks that you consider making a donation to Leon’s favorite charity. As a member of the CMA, Leon was deeply committed to its ministry, and it would mean so much to us to see his passion for this work continue to grow in his absence.

As Leon’s passing was unexpected, we are also facing the unforeseen expenses that come with making funeral arrangements. If you would like to help with these expenses, donations may be made through Cash App or Venmo using the information below.

Thank you for your love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Your kindness means more to our family than words can express.

https://cmausa.org/Donate/Donate#Runfortheson

@Kelli-Sanders-30 (Venmo)

$KelliSanders24 (cashapp)