Diane Sanders

Diane Ann Sanders, born in Edison, NJ on April 18, 1954, to the late Herman Sharp, Sr. and Lauretta Sharp, departed this life on Sunday June 8, 2025, at age 71. Diane was the sixth of eleven children: Herman Sharp, Jr. [predeceased], Carter L. Sharp, Rev. Fred Sharp, Betty L. Billingsley, Jimmy R. Sharp, Ronald Sharp, Sandy Johnson, Barbara Sears [predeceased], Michele Foti and Steven Sharp. Diane was affectionately known as "Nanna".

Diane was educated through the Edison Public School System; she graduated John P. Stevens High School in June 1972. Diane later studied Business at Livingston College. Her compassionate nature led her to a fulfilling career in Environmental Services, where she dedicated herself to serving others at nursing homes in New Jersey and North Carolina for over 40 years.

In 1976, Diane met the love of her life, Thomas Sanders, beginning a lifelong journey filled with love, devotion and cherished memories. Her loving spirit shone brightly throughout her life. A devoted wife and mother, Diane created a nurturing home filled with laughter, support, and unconditional love for her children.

She lived with a deep passion for helping others. Always the first to lend a hand, offer a listening ear or find a way to make someone's day a little better. She had a special fondness for artificial flowers, a lasting reminder of the beauty she saw in small, simple things. Diane cherished children, finding joy in their laughter, their questions, and their wonder. Whether comforting, guiding, or simply listening, she had a natural way of making Everyone feel seen and loved.

Diane's spirit was reflected in her Christian faith; she studied the bible with Jehovah's Witnesses and regularly attended meetings at the Kingdom Hall. Though she was not a baptized member, she found solace, guidance and spiritual encouragement through her association. A verse she often shared was 1 Peter 4:8, "Above all things, have intense love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins." Diane truly lived by these words - her love embraced all, reflecting the supportive, compassionate nature that defined her life.

Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we take comfort in the legacy she leaves behind, one of kindness, warmth and unwavering care for others. We will miss you, Nanna!

Diane was preceded in death by:
Her parents, Lauretta Sharp and Herman Sharp, Sr. Her sister Barbara Sears and brother Herman Sharp, Jr.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory: her husband, Thomas Sanders; Six children: Felicia Sharp, Charles Sharp, Thomasena McCauley, Mekeia Jenkins, Laquanda Sanders and Lashunda Sanders; Nine grandchildren: Karayah Sanders, Taiwan Sanders-Boyd, Tyajah McCauley, Kaziyah McCauley, Jordan Jenkins, Janiyah Goodman, Kayla Ann McCauley, Natwan Carrington and K'Shonn McCauley Jr; Two great grandchildren: Nasir Bullock and Kayden Bullock; Three son in laws: K'Shonn McCauley Sr., Natwan Jenkins and Jamar Alexander. Five brothers, Three sisters, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The celebration of Diane's life will be held at Magnolia Funeral and Cremation Services at 11240 E. Independence Blvd, Matthews, North Carolina, 28105, on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 11:00 am EDT.

Diane Sanders was a unique soul whose laughter, compassion, and love left an indelible mark on all those she encountered. In honor of Diane, we invite you to share your cherished memories and upload photos of her on the memorial page. Let us come together to remember the vibrant, funny, and loving woman we were so blessed to know.