Marvin Benjamin "Benjie" Sanders

Marvin Benjamin “Benjie” Sanders, 79, of Columbia, South Carolina, died on July 17, 2026.

Born on July 7, 1947, in Newberry, South Carolina, he was the son of Marvin and Carolyn Thrift Sanders.

As the only boy in the family, Benjie was dearly loved by his parents and sisters, and they shared a close bond throughout his life. A proud graduate of Newberry College, he worked as an employee with SCE&G at the V.C. Summer Nuclear Plant.

Known for his caring spirit, Benjie believed in helping others. He generously supported many charities and was always ready to give whatever he had to someone who needed it. He will be remembered for the love and appreciation he had for his family, friends and the gift of life.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his son, David O’Neal (Sherry); grandson, Nathan O’Neal; granddaughter, Jessica Simmons (Jay); great-granchildren; James, Jackson and Judah; as well as his sisters, Marla Gatlin (Milton) and Lynn Coppock (Wayne).

Benjie was predeceased by his father; his loving wife, Sally Jacob Sanders; and his son Herbert Marvin Sanders.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Whitaker Funeral Home, Newberry with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment will take place at Rosemont Cemetery following the service.

Memorials are suggested to the Newberry College Herb Sanders Baseball Scholarship, 2100 College St., Newberry, SC 29108.

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the Sanders family.