Alvin Walton Sanders
September 9, 1925 - February 26, 2021

Alvin Walton Sanders (Sonny) was born to Rosa and Andrew Lynch Sanders on September 9, 1925. He died of natural causes on February 26, 2021, at age 95. He is survived by his three children and their families: Sunny Sanders; Chris and wife Lynda Sanders; and Janel Sanders McCann and husband Bill McCann. Surviving grandchildren are Ben Sanders, Blake Randow, Andrea Sanders, and Meredith Gotcher. He also leaves behind eight great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. He was preceded in death by wife Betty Sanders, his sister Marguerite Dalton, and granddaughter Lauren Wesson.

Alvin grew up in the Colton-Pilot Knob area where his parents farmed and ran a country store. As a son with German roots, he grew to have an excellent work ethic and learned carpentry skills that served him well throughout his life. When he was 17, he persuaded his widowed mother Rosa to allow him to join the Navy to serve during World War II. He married the love of his life, Betty Jo Smith, and they weathered the war as a newly married young couple. While in the Navy, he met Harold Fitzgerald and his wife Anita. They became lifelong friends.

Alvin and Betty built a home in South Austin and soon became charter members of the Woodlawn Baptist Church on Manchaca Road. His church friends called him "A.W." At Woodlawn, he served faithfully as a deacon and taught six-year-olds in Sunday School. Betty and Alvin hosted church friends for rounds of 42, a domino game he enjoyed. Many Woodlawn friends remained friends for life. His faith endured throughout his life and contributed to his commitment to honesty, integrity, and service. Alvin was the last surviving charter member of Woodlawn.

Betty and Alvin had their first child in 1945, then a son, and finally another daughter. His family enjoyed their lives in South Austin. His children remember their dad as a hard-working man who knew the value of saving money and taking care of his family. Like many born during the Depression era, Alvin was a recycler long before it was fashionable. He almost never met a stranger and became endeared to so many. Waitresses, store clerks, nieces, and nephews, in-laws, and other family members appreciated his kind words, sweet smile, and friendly chats. He loved coffee and would share a cup with any visitor. His family spent summer weekends at a small cabin on Lake Travis, where he sometimes enjoyed fishing with his nephew Tim. When Alvin laughed, he could light up a room. He was an avid newspaper reader (especially the comics), often saving clippings to share with his grown children.

Alvin instilled values in his children of kindness and respect for others. One friend told his daughter how much he appreciated Alvin stopping-fifty years ago-to help him fix a flat tire. Alvin didn't know the young man. He just wanted to offer help.

Although he had a variety of work experience and skills, he enjoyed immensely building beautiful homes with his son Chris. Alvin also spent many years building gravity meters; astronauts took one to the moon to measure gravity and to detect moonquakes.

When Betty and Alvin became grandparents in the late 1970's, they became known as Mam and Pap. He and Betty cherished their grandchildren. Pap got down on the floor with his grandchildren to play games, and the kids adored him.

Alvin Sanders perfectly exemplifies a life well lived. His faith and service have earned him multiple stars in his crown. He will be sorely missed by many.

A graveside service will be held 11:00 am, Tuesday, March 2, at Live Oak Cemetery. Pastor Russell Allen will be officiating.

Memorials may be made to the charity of choice. The family thanks you for your prayers, condolences, and support. We understand that due to current circumstances, you may not be able to attend the graveside service. We know you will be with us in spirit.

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