Johnnie Bernard Sanders Sr. was born on December 8, 1960, in Grenada, Mississippi, to Arlean and Jake Sanders. As the 11th of 16 children, Johnnie grew up surrounded by a large, loving family, spending his younger years in Mississippi where he enjoyed playing sports and being active. He attended Jones Road Elementary, Carie Dotson Jr. High, and Lizzie Horn Jr. High.

At the age of 16, Johnnie relocated to Bakersfield, California with his parents, siblings, and extended family, where he attended Bakersfield High School and began building the foundation for his life.

In 1984, Johnnie welcomed his first daughter, Dequita Sanders. During his younger years, he worked a variety of jobs, from the oil fields to running a lawn care business, always doing what he could to provide. He had a deep appreciation for life's simple joys—yard sale hunting, camping, fishing, going to casinos, playing card games, and trying his luck with scratchers. Above all, he loved spending time with his children, always keeping a watchful eye on them and making sure they stayed on the right path, all while keeping laughter close with his sense of humor.

In 1990, Johnnie welcomed his first son, Johnathan Sanders.

In 1997, Johnnie met Kenita, and the two quickly became the love of each other's lives. Together, they built a strong and loving family. In 1999, they welcomed their son, Johnnie Bernard Sanders Jr. As their bond grew, they decided to unite their families and were married on April 8, 2000. During that time, they were also expecting their second son together, Jaylen Sanders, completing their family.

Johnnie was a devoted father, husband, brother, and friend. He was known for his protective nature, his humor, and his unwavering love for his family. He cherished every moment spent with his children and loved ones, always bringing joy, laughter, and guidance into their lives.

Johnnie's legacy of love, strength, and laughter will live on through all who knew and loved him. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife and some siblings.

He leaves to cherish his memory; his children, Dequita, Latisha, Tiesha, Timothy Jr., Johnathan, Tashanae, Johnnie Jr, and Jaylen; 14 grandchildren, Lavon, Antonio Jr., Le'Arie, Zacchaeus, Martin, Keiarah, Corey, Brooklynn, Christopher, Cardell, Johnathan Jr., Elijah, Cydnie, Kyky, Ezra, Josiah, and a new Baby of Joy; great-grands SaDavion Jr. and Jordan S.; and survived by a host of siblings, Arlean, Christine, Dorthy, Sandra, Curtis, Jean, Billy, James, and David; extended family members, and friends who will deeply miss him.

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