Bernard Edward Sanders was born September 4, 1954, in Sumter South Carolina to the late Dorothy Mae Porter and Ernest Sanders. Bernard was educated in the public schools of Sumter County and graduated from Sumter High School with the class of 1972. Following graduation, he proudly served his country by joining the United States Army, where he served for two years and received an honorable discharge. Throughout his life, Bernard built a distinguished career of service. He began his civilian career at Shaw Air Force Base, where he worked for five years. He then worked in the produce department for Bi-Lo and Food Lion, always bringing dedication to his work. Bernard's career path led him to the state of Texas, where he worked with the VA Healthcare Systems before returning to his beloved hometown of Sumter, South Carolina. He concluded his professional journey with the WJB Dorn VA Healthcare System in Columbia, South Carolina, where he retired. Bernard was known for his generous spirit and unwavering commitment to looking out for others. His greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren, who brought immense happiness to his life. His kindness, selflessness, and caring nature touched the lives of everyone who knew him. In addition to his parents, Bernard was preceded in death by his sister, Jeanette Scarborough; and brothers, William Sanders, Terry Sanders, Levy Lemar Portfield, and Edward Griffin, III. Bernard departed this life on September 30, 2025, in Cayce, South Carolina. Bernard leaves to cherish his memories, a daughter, Latoria "Tori" Davis;  two  grandchildren, Nijah Davis and Jonee' McClain; two sisters, Gwendoly Sanders and Shelia Cynthia Porter; four brothers, Ernest (Lisa) Sanders, Jr., Samuel Norris Sanders, Debuin (Charisse) Sanders and Pedro Griffin; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.