Shreveport Community Remembers Esteemed Educator

Community members gathered to honor a beloved educator's memory.

News Summary

The Shreveport community mourns the loss of James Edwin Sanders, a beloved educator and family man who dedicated decades to fostering a love for learning. Jim’s legacy lives on through his family and the thousands of students he inspired throughout his teaching career. A Military Honors service is set for March 19, 2025, honoring his contributions to education and service.

Shreveport Community Mourns Beloved Educator and Family Man

The city of Shreveport is coming together in a wave of grief and celebration as they remember a remarkable man, James Edwin Sanders, who passed away on February 8, 2025, at the impressive age of 89. Known fondly as Jim, he was a cherished educator, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, leaving behind a legacy of dedication that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew him.

A Life Rooted in Louisiana

Born on May 21, 1935, in the small town of Vivian, Louisiana, Jim was the son of O.C. and Elizabeth Sanders. He was a bright star at Vivian High School, graduating in 1953. During his high school years, he showcased his athletic prowess, excelling in both basketball and football. In fact, Jim’s talent led him to be selected for the prestigious Louisiana All-State Football Team that same year. He even participated in the high school football all-star game, strutting his stuff before a crowd of cheering fans.

From College to the Army

His exceptional skills on the field earned him a scholarship to Louisiana State University (LSU), where he played football for two years before transferring to Northwestern State University. There, he completed a bachelor’s degree in education in 1957, later following it up with a master’s degree. Driven by a sense of duty, Jim joined the United States Army in 1958, proudly serving his country in West Germany after his basic training. He earned an honorable discharge in 1961 and returned home, ready to pour his passion into education.

Cultivating Futures in Education

In Shreveport, Jim embarked on a remarkable journey in education, teaching and coaching at North Highlands Elementary and Youree Drive Junior High. His career progressed, and he took on the role of assistant principal at both Eden Gardens and Claiborne Elementary schools. He became the principal at Judson Elementary and later at University Elementary for a wonderful 15 years, leaving a mark on countless students and fostering a love for learning. Even after his retirement from the Caddo Parish Schools system, he continued to share his zeal, working for an impressive 22 more years with the Willis Knighton hospital system.

A Family Man First

Beyond his impressive career, Jim was truly a family man, affectionately known as PawPaw. His life revolved around his beloved wife, Dicksey Gerlach Sanders, with whom he shared nearly 34 wonderful years. He is also survived by four loving children—James Edwin Sanders Jr., Susan Sanders Magner, Meredith Brown Melancon, and Mitchell Brown—as well as a bevy of grandchildren and great-granddaughters, ensuring his legacy continues through multiple generations.

A Passion for Music and a Final Wish

One of Jim’s many passions included his love for music, particularly the legendary sounds of Elvis Presley. He had a light-hearted nature and often joked about his departure likened to Elvis leaving the building. Those who knew him can attest to his kind heart and his commitment to education, nurturing countless young minds throughout his expansive career.

Honoring Jim’s Memory

As his family navigates this vastly difficult time, they deeply appreciate the care provided by Vernita Brown, Linda Williams, and the dedicated caretakers at The Glen. In lieu of flowers, Jim wished for memorials or donations to be made to the Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home & Family Ministries in Monroe, LA, as a tribute to his legacy of love and service.

A Day to Remember

To honor his life, a Military Honors service is scheduled to take place at the NW Louisiana Veterans Cemetery on March 19, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. Following the ceremony, family and friends are invited to a Reception/Celebration of Life at 578 Waterford Dr, Shreveport, LA at noon—a perfect opportunity to share stories and remember the incredible person Jim was.

As tributes pour in, Shreveport residents hold onto the memories of Jim, a man who brightened their community with his warm spirit and passion for education.