James Eric Sanders

James Eric Sanders, 56, of Manila, passed away at his home on Sept. 18, 2024. Eric was born on June 26, 1968, in Osceola to Wayne and Linda Thomas. He dedicated many years of service as a maintenance supervisor at Kagome Foods in Osceola before his retirement.

Eric leaves behind a loving family, including his mother, Linda Thomas of Mountain Home; his wife of 34 years, Donna Sanders, of the home; his sons, Joe (Jade) Burns of Manila, J.J. (Ashley) Sanders of Pineville, Mo., and Chris Sanders of Rogers; daughters, Angel Bishop (Josh Williams) of Luxora, and Stacey (Josh) Vanscoder of Cave City; brother, John (Regina) Thomas of Pontotoc, Miss.; sister, Lorie (Steve) Elliott of Mountain Home; and 19 grandchildren, Hunter Cross, Jaxon Vanscoder, Gabby Grissom, Jonathan Vanscoder, Karleigh Vanscoder, Colton Burns, Amelia Burns, Dalton Bishop, Ayden Bishop, Brantley Williams, Gabriel Williams, Aiyanna Russo, Zayden Sanders, Brooklyn Erickson, Ryder May, Mark Taylor, Linleigh Rongey, Navaeh Sanders, Athena Sanders. He is also survived by his uncle, Jimmy Thomas of Osceola.

Eric was preceded in death by his father, Wayne Thomas; nephew, Carlos Walker; and his beloved dog and very best friend, Camo Sanders A.K.A Boudreaux.

The family welcomed friends from 12-2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20, at Wilson Funeral Home, 1323 W. Keiser Ave., Osceola, AR 72370. A funeral service was held at 2 p.m. the same day with Bro. Gary Andrews officiating. James was laid to rest in Dogwood Cemetery, Blytheville. Wilson Funeral Home in Osceola assisted the family with arrangements.

Eric will be remembered as a devoted family man and a respected member of his community.