John Nelson Riley Sanders

John Nelson Sanders, 33, of Decatur, passed away on August 29, 2026 in Hartselle. A graveside memorial service will be Saturday, October 17, 2026 at 2:00 PM at Fergason Cemetery with Rev. Jonathan Henderson officiating and Lawrence Funeral Home assisting the family.

Nelson was born June 2, 1993, in Morgan County, to John A. Sanders and Cheryl Speake Holt. He was a graduate of Hatton High School , class of 2011. He was a wonderful son, brother, and friend to people from every walk of life. He had a love for life whether it be walking along a creek or river bank, hiking in the woods, metal detecting on his property or spending time with his family and his many friends. Nelson loved the outdoors and always put the needs of others before his own. He was employed by North Alabama Electric, Inc., as a Vice President, prior to his passing.

Preceding him in death were his grandparents, Clarion and Wilma Bernice Carroll, James Coy Speake, and Willard Ray Sanders.

Survivors include his father, John Sanders; mother, Cheryl Speake (Ricky) Holt; sisters, Brittany Herbert McDonald and Chelsea Sanders; brothers, Jeremiah Holt and Logan Shelton; nieces Evelyn Barr, and Heaven McDonald; nephews, Reece McDonald, Elijah Barr, Jayden Holt, and Landon Holt.

In lieu of flowers, family requests donations be made to the Gideon's International or to the National Wildlife Federation or a charity of your choosing.