10/27/2025
Carl Franklin Sanders, 77, of Clayton, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. A devoted husband, father, brother, and friend, Carl will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his unmatched work ethic, and the joy and laughter he brought to everyone who crossed his path.
Born on August 12, 1948, in Smithfield, North Carolina, Carl was the son of the late George and Dorothy Sanders. He attended Johnston County Training School in Smithfield, where he began forming the strong sense of discipline and purpose that would guide him throughout his life. Carl was a natural leader, provider, and protector.
Carl dedicated over four decades to the construction industry and started his own business, Sanders Construction Company, in 1985. Through hard work and integrity, he built a respected and successful business that stands as a testament to his vision and determination.
Married to the love of his life, Pauline Sanders, for 52 years, Carl cherished every moment they shared. Their bond was one of true partnership — rooted in love, laughter, and mutual respect. Together, they raised their beloved daughter, Stephanie Vinson, who, along with her family, brought Carl immense pride and joy.
Carl’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He has served as a trustee over the years. He is a member of Redeeming Love Church, Raleigh, NC. Carl served his community with humility and devotion. He was also a faithful member of Rough Ashler #52 Masonic Lodge, where his dedication to brotherhood and service was well known.
Fondly remembered for his humor and generosity, Carl never met a stranger. Whether telling stories, lending a helping hand, or tinkering with tools in his garage, he approached everything with heart, skill, and good humor. If you needed something done, he would do it, and if he could not do it, he knew someone who could. A country boy at heart, he found peace working outdoors, in his garden, or on a construction site, often with music playing in the background. He loved all types of music, especially jazz, gospel, Motown and a little country.
Carl is survived by his loving wife, Pauline; daughter, Stephanie Vinson (Dwayne), Raleigh: three grandchildren, Demetri Vinson, Clayton, Devin Vinson, Raleigh, and Donovan Vinson, Raleigh, four sisters, Claudette Daniel (Joe), Raleigh, Della Sanders, (Raleigh), Clara Bailey, (Carl),Charlotte, and Gracie Revell, (Wilmington), one aunt, Callie Satterfield (Vernon), Durham and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, the late George and Dorothy Sanders, siblings Gerald L. Sanders, Decarius Sanders, Robert E. Sanders, and Sharon Sanders.
Walk-Thru Viewing: Friday October 31, 2025, at the Walter Sanders Funeral & Cremations Chapel 302 S. Bright Leaf Blvd., Smithfield, NC from 12:00 noon until 5:30 pm.
Funeral Services:
Celebration of life Services for Carl Sanders will be held on Saturday November 1, 2025, at New Generation Christian Church New G Center, located at 4423 Wilson’s Mills Road, Smithfield, NC 27577.
Visitation- 11:00-11:30
Service- 11:30-12:30
www.waltersandersfuneralhome.com
