Melvin Sanders

Melvin Sanders, 70, of Amarillo passed into the arms of Jesus on Saturday June 12, 2021 in Amarillo. The family will receive friends on Monday June 14 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the funeral home, 4180 Canyon Drive. Funeral services will be 10:00 AM Tuesday June 15, 2021 at Arden Road Baptist Church, 6701 Arden Rd, with Pastor Aaron Denson officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Cox-Rowley Funeral Home.

Melvin was born in Amarillo on February 21, 1951 to Herbert and Amy Sanders. He graduated from Amarillo High School and married his sweetheart, Debra Bull on December 18, 1969 in Amarillo. They have celebrated 51 years of marriage together. He and his wife have been faithful members of Arden Road Baptist Church for 22 years. Melvin worked for Dennis Glass Auto Body and Pilot Flying J. He served on the board of Make-A-Wish Foundation of Amarillo and was an important father figure to many. Melvin loved classic cars, chili cook offs, smoking meat, and cooking food. He was lifetime member of the Southwest Optimist Club, Coors Cowboy Club, and Tall in Texas Chili Pod. Melvin was passionate about helping others in his church and also worked with the Evelyn Rivers Toy Run for many years. He will be remembered and missed by many.

Melvin was preceded in death by his mother, Amy Bichsel and step-father, J.L. Bichsel.

Survivors include his wife, Debra Sanders of the home; two daughters, Tricia Simmons and husband Paul of Canyon, and Candy Sanders of Amarillo; one aunt, Hazel Link of Amarillo; four grandchildren, Henry Simmons, Andrew, Isabelle, and Paisley. Survivors also include a host of additional family members and close friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Arden Road Baptist Church, 6701 Arden Road Amarillo, Texas 79109.