Richard Sanders

Richard Michael Sanders, 42, passed away on October 24, 2011.  Richard will forever be remembered with love and admiration by his partner of more than 15 years, Ralph Hale.  Richard joyously entered the world on July 2, 1969 blessing his mother, Kathie Sanders, with his gentle manner and enthusiasm for life.  Richard treasured his grandmother, Nona DeWoody and was devoted to his brothers, Robbie and Mark Sanders and his sisters, Miranda Combs and Melissa Moseley.   He was a caring son to his father, Leslie Sanders, a thoughtful grandson to Joyce Adams and a great friend to his siblings’ spouses, Kayce Sanders, Mary Hinkston, Chad Combs and Billy Moseley.  He was very pleased to have recently connected with half sisters, Melisa Reiswig, Jamie Williams, and Natalie Kirkpatrick.  Richard was born and raised in Oklahoma City and graduated from Northwest Classen High School in 1987.  He was a star in the Oklahoma City gay community and a featured member of the Cry-Slurs musical group in the 1980s. As stated by his partner, Ralph, Richard taught us all how to be better people. With a quick smile and generous nature, Richard served as an inspiration to everyone he met.  He maintained his trademark sharp wit and ready sense of humor to the end.  He enjoyed time spent with valued friends and coworkers at Claim Logic and cherished his many friends.  He will be deeply missed by those closest to him, Jaye Dee Watts, Lorrie Stephens and Brent Barnes along with many others too numerous to name. Richard is survived by his partner, his grandmothers, his mother, father and his siblings.  He was preceded in death by his father, James Kirkpatrick, Jr. Last but not least, Richard was preceded in death by his beloved pets Stormy and Gabby.  He is survived by his ‘fur’ children Weezer, Buddy, Bella, Molly, Tilly, Jake, Bug, Harley and Ernie. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Richard Sanders please visit our Sympathy Store.