Carl Rodell Sanders

Carl Rodell Sanders, 84, of Lubbock, Texas, passed peacefully at home on May 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving family after several months of declining health. He was born on April 22, 1942, in Crosby County, Texas, the sixth child of Opal and Homer Sanders. Carl spent the better part of his life in Lubbock, a city he called home and served with pride.

A natural entrepreneur, Carl built a life centered on hard work, community, and connection. He channeled that spirit into a remarkable 55-year career in real estate, working as a licensed broker, builder, and founding his own agency, Carl Sanders Realtors. Over the decades, Carl became a familiar and trusted name in Lubbock’s real estate community, serving as a leader in the industry and, more importantly, building lasting friendships along the way. Those who knew Carl best will remember his wonderful sense of humor — he was quick with a joke, kept everyone laughing, and had a gift for lighting up any room he walked into. He was, without question, the life of the party.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Carl was a devoted husband, father, and community member. He is survived by his beloved wife of 20 years, Betty Sharp Sanders; his daughter, Carla Vickery (Steve Drake), and son, Kevin Sanders, born to his first wife, Shirley Miller; and his blended children, Susie Griffin (Jon) and Sam Sharp. He is also survived by his siblings Rita Fudge, Linda Beshires (Ray), Lynn Sanders (Kim), and Lula Renshaw. Carl leaves behind ten grandchildren: Courtney Miller (Jon), Colby Vickery (Sarah), Zach Vickery (Mandi), Stephen Sanders (Carrie), Tori Danos (Zach), Dustin Sanders, Kelsey Wall (Aaron), Tatum Stephens (Conner), Dakota Sharp, and Sawyer Lovett (Jacob); as well as thirteen great-grandchildren who will carry his memory forward. He was preceded in death by his siblings Francine Sanders, Bobby Sanders, Tressa Donathan, and Wendell Sanders.

Carl’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He was a dedicated member of First Church of the Nazarene for over 11 years, where he worshipped alongside friends who became family. His commitment to others extended into the community as well – Carl and Betty regularly volunteered with Meals on Wheels, quietly making a difference in the lives of their neighbors.

Anyone who knew Carl knew his passion for Texas Tech. He was a proud and enthusiastic Red Raider fan who attended football games and followed nearly every other sport the university fielded. On game days, Carl could reliably be found making the rounds at tailgate parties, laughing and visiting with friends old and new. His enthusiasm even took him all the way to Phoenix to cheer on a Texas Tech golfer competing in the LPGA JTBC Founders Cup – that was simply the kind of fan he was.

Carl and Betty also loved to explore the open road as members of a small local RV group, creating memories with friends across the country. Whether tailgating, traveling, or lending a hand, Carl showed up fully – warm, generous, and ready to connect.

Carl Rodell Sanders lived a full and purposeful life. He leaves behind a community that is better for having known him, a family that adored him, and a legacy of kindness, hard work, and genuine fellowship.

Celebration of Life Services will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the Venue on Broadway, 2202 Broadway, next to Combest Family Funeral Home.  Services will be officiated by Pastor Gary Young, lead minister for First Church of the Nazarene.  Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Combest Famly Funeral Homes.

The Sanders family invites all who knew and loved Carl to join them in celebrating his life.