Darrell Eugene Sanders, Sr. was born December 22, 1953, in Cincinnati, Ohio to Mary Francis Sanders and Maurice Oliver. He went home to be with the Lord on May 15, 2025, at the age of 71.  Darrell was raised by his devoted grandparents, Mr. James and Mrs. Willa Mae Sanders, following the early passing of his parents. His adored aunt, Ms. Cora Colvin, affectionately known as "Aunt Sis," played a vital role in helping raise Darrell and his siblings, offering love and guidance throughout their upbringing. Darrell graduated from Hughes High School in June 1972, where he developed a passion for the arts - becoming a master of calligraphy, a talented artist, and a gifted poet. His creativity and expressive spirit were evident in everything he did.  Growing up in Millvale, on Cincinnati's west side, Darrell played basketball at the local community center and formed lifelong friendships. In his earlier years, he was a proud member of the social club, "Ain't No Stopping Us Now," a group of men who brought joy to the community through social events and entertainment. These neighborhood bonds, along with monthly meetings with childhood friends, remained strong into his later years.  Professionally, Darrell worked at Whiteway in South Cumminsville from 1972 to 2007, where he dedicated 35 years of his life crafting lighting and fixtures for business signs.  There, he also established a connection with individuals that would endure for eternity.

Darrell's life was forever changed with the birth of his son, Darrell Eugene Sanders, Jr. in October 1977. His joy multiplied with the arrival of his daughter, DeMeka LaNett Sanders, in June 1980. His love for his children was evident to all—so much so that whenever he saw them, the family would lovingly say, "grinning took place." On March 29, 1986, Darrell married Pamela L. Grafinreed. Through this union, he embraced fatherhood again with the cherished birth of his son, Clayton James Sanders in January 1987, while also taking pride in being a father to his bonus sons, Angelo and Orlando Grafinreed. Together, this blended family, with all his children, created valuable memories that have lasted a lifetime. A dedicated man of Christ and of deep faith, Darrell was one of the founding members of the gospel group, The Anointed Sons of God, a unique gospel singing ensemble that traveled around the country spreading GOD'S word in song. Darrell provided that sweet, melodious, high voice required, as the group became known as the "Gospel Temptations", complete with dress attire and smooth choreography. The group traveled to destinations such as Michigan, New York, Georgia, Tennessee, New Orleans, Missouri, Kentucky, and various other locations. During those trips, the group participated in numerous gospel showcases and workshops and made many promotional radio and TV appearances, including the Bobby Jones Gospel Show. He even performed as background singer and was an opening act for the Mighty Clouds of Joy.

Darrell was known for his impeccable style and he knew it; always dressed in top-notch hats and adorned with stylish matching shoes. He was an arts connoisseur - frequently traveling to attend concerts, stage plays, and museums. He was also a devoted Cincinnati Bengals fan that always believed with the rest of us, that THIS was our year.  In his later years, Darrell found great purpose transporting special needs children to and from school—a role he embraced with service, humility, pride and compassion.

Darrell was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; his sister, Rose Mary Sanders, and his niece, Nikkia Sanders.  He leaves to cherish his memory: his wife, Pamela L. Grafinreed; his children, Darrell (Milisa) Sanders Jr., DeMeka Sanders, and Clayton Sanders; his bonus sons, Angelo Grafinreed and Orlando Grafinreed; grandchildren, D'Asia Leathers, Alexis Sanders, and Kinyada Watts; great-grandchildren, Aaliyah and Antjuan Sanders;  his beloved Aunt Cora Colvin; brother, Kenneth Sanders; his very close cousin/brother, Elwin Colvin; and a host of nieces, nephews cousins, extended family, and dear friends. Darrell's legacy of faith, deep love for family, friendship, music, style, creativity, service, and unwavering devotion to those he held dear, will live on in all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Gathering of family and friends is from 5:00 pm until 5:30 pm, on  Thursday, June 12, 2025, at the Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel, 2625 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati  (45206).   The memorial service will immediately follow the visitation beginning at 5:30 pm.

To share a memory of Darrell or leave a special message for the Sanders family, please click the "Tribute Wall" tab above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory  is caring for the Sanders family during this difficult time.  Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.