James "Jimmy" Howard Sanders, lovingly known as "Papaw," entered into the arms of his Heavenly Father on August 5, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with illness. A memorial service will be held at 11 am, August 8, 2025, at Green Lawn Church of Christ, in Lubbock.

He was born on March 11, 1953, in Guymon, Oklahoma, to James Earl and Dona Sanders. As a young child, Jimmy moved with his family from Guymon to El Cajon, California, where he spent most of his early life. He graduated from high school in Vista, California, before returning to Oklahoma in 1973. It was there he met the love of his life, Jana Forrest. The two were married on June 28, 1975, in Canadian, Texas.

Jimmy and Jana built a beautiful life together. They welcomed their first son, Jerrid, in 1981, followed by their second son, Justin, in 1982. Jimmy loved his boys, and he and Jana would travel with them during their Little League sporting activities all the way through to the high school activities. Jimmy was very active in FFA with his sons. They traveled to many stock shows together, as well as other FFA events, while building a strong family bond with their sons. Jimmy worked in management for several companies throughout his career, ultimately retiring from Tyco Fire Products in 2005.

A good man of faith, Jimmy allowed the love of Christ to shine through in all he did. He served as an elder at the New Home Church of Christ in New Home, while his family were members there. He was a kind, generous soul whose laughter was contagious. He was always ready for a game with anyone willing to play and had a special love for working with the Blessing Center at his church. Jimmy also had a lifelong passion for cars and took great pride in keeping Jana's vehicles in pristine condition.

After retiring, Jimmy and Jana enjoyed traveling together, including a memorable trip to the Northeast to experience the fall foliage. They also loved camping and made many treasured memories traveling with their children and grandchildren. Jimmy adored his dogs and lovingly referred to them as his "kids."

Jimmy and Jana recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 28, 2025, a milestone marked by enduring love and devotion.

He is preceded in death by his father, James Earl Sanders; his mother and stepfather, Dona and Jean Pierre Campillo; brothers-in-law Nick Diaz, Lou Fox, Doyle Free, Henry Atkinson, Gilbert Forrest, and Wayne Carson; and his sister-in-law, Barbara Forrest.

Jimmy is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Jana Sanders of Lubbock; his sons, Jerrid and wife Amy of Lubbock, and Justin and wife Melanie of San Antonio; and his cherished granddaughters: Katelyn, Cassie, Kaylee, and Julie. He is also survived by his sisters, Earlene Carson of Post, and Rawlena Hughes and husband Gary of Shallowater, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the Green Lawn Church of Christ Blessing Center, 5701 19th Street, Lubbock, TX. This ministry was dear to Jimmy's heart, and he enjoyed serving there during his retirement.