January 16, 1949 ~ March 8, 2026 (age 77)
Gladys Diane Sanders, lovingly known as Diane to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, in Valley, AL. Born on January 16, 1949, in Alexander City, AL, Diane was a beacon of warmth and spirited joy to all who had the privilege of knowing her throughout her 77 years of life.
Diane will be profoundly missed by her devoted son, Timmy Sanders, and her adoring grandchildren, Ali Sanders, Jaymie (Mike) Chapman, and Kinley Davis. She also leaves behind a special nephew, Andy Harper, and nieces, Tanya Williams, Kimberly McFann, and Tara Stafford, as well as nephews, Blake Diamond, Thomas Mills Jr., Jason McVay, Donald McVay Jr., Johnny Bolt Jr., Virgil Bolt, and Joseph Bolt, not to mention the numerous great-nieces and nephews who all held a cherished place in her heart.
Her parents, Dora and Virgil Bolt, welcomed her into their heavenly family, alongside her beloved husband, Elbert L. Sanders, her sisters, Janie Diamond and Benita Jean McVay, her brother, Johnny M. Bolt Sr., and her daughter-in-law, April Smith Sanders, all of whom preceded her in death.
For over three decades, Diane was a dedicated member of the Harrington Heights Methodist Church, where her presence was a constant source of support and friendship. A true matriarch, she relished in the titles of “Maw Maw” and “Aunt,” which reflected her loving nature and boundless energy. Her skills in the art of sewing were admired by many, a craft she practiced with grace and precision.
Diane also possessed a sweet tooth, resulting in a love for baking all kinds of sweets which she shared generously. Her collection of elegant handbags and stylish shoes was a testament to her impeccable taste and the joy she found in the simple pleasure of shopping. Spare times would often find her absorbed in watching old Western and Gospel music shows, which brought her immense enjoyment.
Those who knew Diane will always remember her as a loving and spirited soul, whose radiant smile and kind words brought comfort and happiness to those around her. Her legacy is etched into the lives of those she touched, and the many memories they shared will continue to be celebrated and cherished. Diane Sanders’s life was one filled with devotion to her beloved family, a passion for her interests, and an unwavering faith that guided her journey. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered with affection and gratitude.
Funeral services for Diane will be held on Sunday, March 15th, 2026, at 2:30 PM (EST) at the Johnson Brown-Service Chapel in Valley, Alabama. Interment will follow in Oakwood Cemetery. Pastor Andy Harper will officiate. Diane’s family will receive friends for visitation Sunday afternoon at Johnson Brown-Service from 1:30 PM (EST) until the service hour.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Harrington Heights Methodist Church, mailing address is 6138 16th Street SW, Lanett, AL, 36863.
Please visit Diane’s Memorial Tribute page at www.johnsonbrownservicefh.com to leave a kind word for her family, to share a memory of Diane, or to light a Remembrance Candle in her memory.
Johnson Brown-Service Funeral Home of Valley directing.
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