Theodora Costella Sanders

Theodora Costella Sanders was born March 7, 1930, in Straight Creek, KY; the 2nd of 7 children born to Daniel and Alma May Sr. Raised in a Christian home, Theodora became a devoted Child of God, living a life of service and love. 

The Lord took her home Wednesday, February 19, 2025, just before her 95th birthday.

After graduating in 1948, at the top of her class from Excelsior High School (McDowell County, WV), Theodora married Charlie Sanders Jr. They lived in New Hall WV. until 1952 when they moved to Columbus, Ohio. They raised five children and were married over 65 years. 

Theodora’s skill, intellect, and innovation fueled a successful career in various administrative positions at The Ohio State University in the Bacteriology Lab and Medical Technology departments. She later became an executive administrator at Dow Chemical in Newark, OH. 

Theodora was a pillar of Greater 12th Missionary Baptist Church Columbus, OH and the larger Christian community for over 70 years. She was a self-taught pianist and served as the Minster of Music at Greater 12th for 56 years. As a deaconess, Theodora was a strong servant leader, serving in leadership roles within the EUMBA and the Ohio Baptist General Convention. 

Theodora had tons of funny sayings “Jumpin’ Catfish Joe” for example. She would also give people nicknames, like “Gumpy-gip & Coot.” She had an amazing ability to make everyone feel loved and supported. Her home was often filled with family and friends. 

Theodora was preceded in death by her husband: Charlie Sanders Jr., her parents; son, Wendell Sanders (aka Gumpy-gip); granddaughter, Danniea and grandsons, Ricco and Jansen; siblings Virgina Lewis, Hettie Crockett, Baby May, Julia Burton, Priscilla Hall and Daniel Jr. Continuing to celebrate her in life: daughters Charlene Grant, Lewis Center, OH, Regenia Sanders, Cary, NC and Sheryl Sanders (aka Coot), Columbus, OH; son, Rodney (Deborah) Sanders, Columbus, OH; grandchildren: Reverend Dorian Grant, Kanya Grant, Theara Sanders, Reggie (Dawn) Jackson, Leshawna Pead, Lisa Mahoney, D’Lacey Stith, De’Ontay Sanders, Izabella Sanders, Lydia, Melita and Abigail (Amy) Sanders; a host of great and great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many other relatives and friends. 

 We deeply mourn her homegoing but will celebrate her life with joyful hearts, knowing she rests with God.