Bobby Sanders

Bobby Sanders entered the world on August 3, 1935 born to Joe and Marie (Jones) Sanders Sr. in Memphis TN. His mother passed away shortly after his birth and he was raised by his grandmother and his Aunt Hattie Knowles. He attended Melrose High School and then enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. in 1953. He was stationed in various location and served in the Korean War. While stationed in Key West, FL he was honorably discharged and remained in Key West and became an honorary member of the Rolle family with the matriarch Rosanna Rolle. He became the first African- American fire fighter for the United States Government in Key West, FL. In 1963 Bobby married Cynthia Wilson and to this union three children were born, Bobby Jr., Ramona and Norice. After relocating to Palm Beach County, FL Bobby was employed with Pratt & Whitney. He eventually left Pratt & Whitney to become a Letter Carrier where he had an extensive career. In 1984 Bobby reunited with Kathleen Castillo Smith and began his second marriage for the next thirty-eight years. He continued his career until he retired in 2000. After retirement Bobby enjoyed traveling to Key West and playing dominoes with friends for hours on end (maybe days). He was known as the “Conch Fritter King” and his conch fritters were always in high demand. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends and spent the latter years of his retirement doing just that. In July 2022 his health started to decline. After long stays in the hospital/rehabilitation facilities, Kathy brought him home and tirelessly cared for him with the unyielding help of their grand-daughter Terrion and Terrion’s mom Mary Brown. On December 13, 2022, Bobby entered enteral life and was proceeded in death by his parents, several siblings, three grandchildren (Kaiya, Alex and Remy) and his daughter Ramona Sanders-David. Bobby is survived by, his wife Kathleen Sanders, son Bobby Sanders Jr., daughter Norice (Tony) Smith, step-daughters Cecilia Castillo-Johnson, Lanita Castillo-Flagg and Kisha Castillo-McIntosh, step-son Marvin (Claudette) Castillo II. He also leaves behind one sister, Verla Barry, sister in-laws Earnestine Curry, Sara Wilder, Sunae Rolle and Hedwig Rolle. 21 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and many close friends including Rudy (Theresa) Manuel, Curtis (Jean) Williams and Ben (Julia) Smith.

Bobby Sanders

August 3, 1935 - December 13, 2022