Elmer Wesley Sanders Jr., age 88, of Clarkson, KY, passed away Saturday, (October 3, 2026) at his home.

He was born on June 19, 1938, in Kyrock, KY, the son of the late Elmer Wesley Sr. and Nannie Farris Sanders.

In his younger years, he enjoyed playing softball, basketball and golf. As the years passed, he developed a passion for woodworking and took great pride in his projects.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, he honorably served his country during the Vietnam War. He was a former member of VFW Post 1181 in Louisville and was deeply involved in Masonic and fraternal organizations throughout his life. He was a past Master of the Caneyville Masonic Lodge, a current member of Washington Meredith Masonic Lodge #355 in Brownsville, served as grand Royal Patron of the Commonwealth of Kentucky Order of the Amaranth, and a member of the Antioch General Baptist Church.

He is survived by his spouse, Shirley A. Sanders of Clarkson; daughter, Debbie Whittle (Danny); son, Elmer W. “Buddy” Sanders (Kristy) of Bonnieville; five grandchildren, Terri Lee Miller, Rhonda Brown, Matt Whittle, Ashley Johnson and B.J Sanders; multiple great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Ellen Decker; son, Earnest “Corky” Sanders; and a grandson, Christopher Decker.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, (October 13, 2026) at the Dermitt Funeral Home in Leitchfield. Bro. Damon Lasley Jr. will be officiating. Burial will be in the Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central in Radcliff at 2:30 p.m. EST.

Visitation will be at the Dermitt Funeral Home from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday and from 9:00 a.m. Tuesday until time of services.