BENTON — Jerry Ray Sanders,

78, of Benton, passed away Thursday, March 30, 2023, at Arkansas Health Center in Benton, Ark. He was born June 14, 1944, at Best, Ark., to Benjamin Keith and Imogene Clarise Morris Sanders.

Jerry was the father of four children and one bonus daughter. He had been an auto mechanic in the Springdale area for many years. A hot rodder, classic car and motorcycle enthusiast, he loved driving his ‘57 Chevy and riding his Triumph. Jerry also enjoyed reloading ammunition, target practicing, and collecting guns.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Keith and Imogene Sanders; uncle, Ray Sanders; his brother, Billy Sanders; and nephew, Barry Sanders.

He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Brian and Mia Sanders of California; daughters and sons-inlaw, Lisa and Robert Smith of New Hampshire; Melissa and Dave Ariza of California, and Tamara and Shawn Sweeten of Oklahoma, Lucretia Richardson of Arkansas; 13 grandchildren, Spencer, Sydney (George), Amanda, Ben, Bennett, Nathan, Jacob, Whitley (David), Tanner, Teagan, Maddox, Shawnna, and Blake; and six great-grandchildren, Riggs, Hayes, Ryan, Addison, Coen, and Granger. Jerry is also survived by his sister-inlaw, Betty Sanders; and two nieces, Sherry and Angela.

The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff at the Arkansas Health Center for their loving care and support of our father.

No services are planned at this time. Private interment will be at Austin Cemetery, Best, Ark. Cremation is entrusted to Brashears Funeral Home and Crematory of Huntsville.