Bernice L. Sanders' Obituary
Bernice Louise Blackmon Sanders, 85, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, peacefully entered eternal rest on April 8, 2026, in the comfort of her home. She was born on February 23, 1941, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to the late Samuel Lee Blackmon and Annie V. Blackmon.
Bernice was a proud graduate of Howard High School, Class of 1959. She went on to build a remarkable career as a Ward Clerk at Erlanger Hospital, where she dedicated over 30 years of service. Known as the “face of the ward,” Bernice was admired for her calm spirit, empathy, and exceptional organization. In addition to her healthcare career, she also worked for over 20 years at Walmart and was famously known in her community as one of the best pie makers in the city.
A faithful and devoted servant of God, Bernice was a member of Cleages-Thompkin United AME Zion Church. Her commitment to her faith was evident through her service as a Deaconess, Treasurer, Trustee Board Member, and a dedicated member of the Women’s Home and Overseas Missionary Society. She was also a proud member of the Order of the Eastern Star.
Bernice was the heart of her family, the matriarch, the “umbrella branch,” the one who held everyone together. She was loving, joyful, honest, and strong, with a spirit that could light up any room. She was known for her straightforward wisdom, her humor, and her famous expressions, always telling the truth, whether you wanted to hear it or not, and often saying “Oh Jesus” with a smile. She didn’t take any mess, but her love ran deep.
She found joy in gardening, baking, and singing. Her home was filled with love, laughter, and always something sweet in the kitchen. Through every season of life: joy, heartbreak, triumph, and pain, Bernice sang. Her voice was a source of comfort, celebration, and strength for all who knew her.
Bernice believed deeply in faith, family, and truth. She taught those around her to put God first, to care for themselves, to love others, and to always tell the truth. She reminded us that when life becomes overwhelming, to “call on the Good Master, He’s already fixed it.” And when words fail, she believed you could sing your way through anything.
Her legacy is one of unwavering love, strength, faith, and wisdom. She had a way of bringing peace into any situation, making it impossible to stay upset for long. She helped everyone she could, always offering guidance, comfort, or a solution, and when she didn’t have the answer, she took it to God.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Annie Blackmon; brothers, Earl Blackmon, Frank Blackmon, and James Blackmon; sisters, Jessie Mae Davis and Doris Paris; beloved daughter-in-law, Kathy Sanders; granddaughter, Cinnette Sanders; and her grandson, Quartez Sanders.
Bernice was the loving mother of Cheryl A. Sanders of Rossville, Georgia; James E. Sanders II, Paul A. Sanders, and William T. Mangum, all of Chattanooga, Tennessee. She leaves to cherish her memory her grandchildren: Corey Sanders, Jamesha Sanders, Ashley Sanders, Jeremy Jones, Paul Sanders II, James Sanders III, Andrea Sanders, and LaBrisha Sanders, along with 24 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, calls, messages, and support during this time of bereavement. We ask that when you think of Bernice, you say a prayer for our family, as we will deeply miss the matriarch of our family.
Bernice will lie-in-state on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Cleages-Thompkin United AME Zion Church. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at 10:00 a.m. with Bishop Richard Morris, Sr., as the Eulogist. Burial in Forest Hill Cemetery.
What’s your fondest memory of Bernice?
What’s a lesson you learned from Bernice?
Share a story where Bernice's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Bernice you’ll never forget.
How did Bernice make you smile?