Deborah Sanders

Deborah was born December 10, 1971 in Falfurrias, Texas to parents Elisa Garcia Pena and Oscar H. Pena. Deborah graduated from Falfurrias High School in 1990 and received her Bachelor of Science in Education in 1994 from Southwest Texas State University. During her college years she met the true love of her life, Jerry Richie Sanders. United in marriage on June 25th, 1994 Deborah and Richie soon began a family and together raised 3 children Caden, Brandon, and Briana while residing in Austin, Texas.

As a young child, Deborah had a zest for a wide variety of sports, especially volleyball- she was always a fierce competitor. She loved being outdoors and had many wonderful memories attending theme parks, especially Astroworld. From early childhood Deborah’s huge heart, outgoing personality and vibrant smile led to the union of many cherished friendships that continued throughout the course of her life.

As a daughter, her loving soul and infectious smile are memories that will always be instilled in the hearts of her parents and siblings.

As wife and mother, she excelled in constantly showering her family with unconditional love, support, guidance, commitment and made every effort to create wonderful memories to last a lifetime. Whether it was birthday parties, organizing extra circular activities, family events, annual summer trips to the Comal River, or holiday travels, she made every effort to make each moment special and memorable. Deborah truly embodied the definition of being a mother and loved every minute with Richie and her kids constantly at her side. They were her biggest inspiration.

As a teacher, at Del Valle ISD, her passionate spirit inspired kindergarten and 1st graders to have a true love for learning and embrace their creative abilities. She loved on each tiny individual as they were truly one of her own.

As a dear friend, her loyalty and love for life will always remain in the beautiful memories of those who were graced to know her...and let’s not forget that angelic voice, oh how she loved to karaoke! She had a “special” and “unique” voice that was one of a kind and loved by all.

As a warrior, Deborah was valiant in her fight against cancer and received constant love, support, and prayers from family and friends during her difficulty journey. Despite the toughest battles, it was that infectious smile that always found an ability to light up any room. Whether it was her sweet smile, the sound of her laughter, or a lifetime of special memories, she will forever live in our hearts.

Deborah is proceeded in death by her grandparents, Antonio and Elisa Pena, Pedro and Aurelia Garcia, and fur baby Pedro Sanders.

She is survived by her husband Jerry Richie Duane Sanders; children, Caden Jerry Sanders, Brandon Antonio Sanders, and Briana Liz Sanders; mother, Elisa G. Pena; father and stepmother Oscar H and Delia Pena; siblings Lisa Pena (Desi Brown) , Pamela (Elbert) De La Cruz, Rolando (Irene) Sanchez, and Ricardo (Tessa) Sanchez; grandpup Molly Sanders; as well as a host of loving nieces, nephews, family and friends.