Carlton (Carl) Boyd Sanderson Jr.

Carlton (Carl) Boyd Sanderson, Jr. was born July 30, 1941, in Charleston, SC to Carlton Boyd Sanderson and Thelma Grace O’Dell Sanderson. He passed away surrounded by love after a short fight with cancer.

Carl graduated The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, in 1965 with a Business Administration degree and was a proud member of M Company. That same year, he married the love of his life, Catherine “Bunny” Haslam Sanderson. They shared 59 wonderful years together. 

Carl enjoyed a long and very accomplished career in the business financial sector with most years being spent in the aerospace industry. His work included roles  at Martin Marietta , Harris Semiconductor, McDonnell Douglas, and Lockheed. He retired from NASA, where he contributed to numerous large and remarkable projects including expendable rocket payloads and lunar buggies. 

A devoted member of Suntree United Methodist Church, Carl served as a trustee and was on several committees, especially enjoying his involvement with the church’s beloved golf cart ministry and the community garden. 

Carl was known for his quiet strength and determination, unwavering integrity, his humor, and deep love for his family. He was a Krispy Kreme enthusiast, an avid and regular Disney World visitor, The Varsity hot dog connoisseur, a lifelong car racing fan (especially Formula 1), and loved all kinds of travel. He and Bunny have visited over 35 countries and most US states. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Bunny; their children Catherine Benitez (Mario), Kendall Sanderson, Tradd Sanderson (Joseph Caiani), and David Sanderson (Diane); grandchildren Jordan Cofer (Clay), Parker Benitez, Micah, Coco, and Curren Sanderson; his sister Dawn Serinken (Sina); and many nieces and nephews. 

Carl’s legacy of love, kindness, and dedication will live on in all who knew him. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Suntree United Methodist Church Choir Fund, 7400 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32940 or The Citadel Foundation, M Company Endownment, 171 Moultrie St, Charleston, SC 29409.

The memorial service will be at Suntree United Methodist Church, 7400 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32940 on August 2, 2025 at 2 pm