Service Details
Family and friends are invited to meet on Friday, December 10, 2021, at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church 1123 Center Street, Racine, WI, for a visitation from 10:00 am -11:00 am
Donovan’s Homegoing service will follow at 11:00.a.m.
You may watch the service via livestream on St. Paul’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/stpaulbaptistracine/live/
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Donovan Jevon Sanders, 35, passed away unexpectedly on November 26, 2021, at his residence. He was born on February 3, 1986, in Racine, WI, where he spent most of his life. Donovan was the son of Donald J. Sanders and Shelia Y. Stewart.
In his early education, Donovan attended grade school at Trinity Lutheran and continued at Racine Lutheran High School graduating on June 6, 2004, where he was recognized as prom king and a high honors student each year. At Racine Lutheran High he also was on the varsity basketball team. Donovan was accepted into several prestigious universities, to include Princeton and Purdue University. He was also offered and received numerous scholarships. He ultimately selected and graduated from Purdue on May 3, 2008, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Communications. Donovan was a highly intelligent individual and had an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Starting at an early age he received a vast number of awards, acknowledgments, and certificates of achievement. At Racine Lutheran High school, each year he received the Scholastic Achievement Academic Excellence award. In 2003 he received a Certificate of Membership with the National Honor Society of Secondary Schools based on scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Donovan is listed in the national Who’s Who Among American High School Students each year’s annual edition from 2000 to 2003 in recognition of his academic achievements. Throughout his adult life and career, he continued his desire to learn new things and continued his love for reading and working with computers. After obtaining his degree, he moved to Florida and worked as an Account Executive for several years before moving back to Racine, WI. He was last employed at Aflac as a life insurance salesman.
Donovan was a very polite, caring person, was sensitive to people, outgoing yet not outspoken. His favorite color was North Carolina Blue. He loved to dance and was an avid fan of Michael Jackson and would often imitate his dancing moves. As a young child while attending a concert his dancing skills were noticed, and he was selected from the crowd to come on stage with MC Hammer along with one of his closest cousins Shahmal to display his dancing skills. He was a critical thinker that would spend free time solving puzzles, answer questions while watching a variety of game shows and wanted everyone to know his favorite was Jeopardy. He also loved watching and solving crime show mysteries.
Donovan was christened as an infant with Delores and Cornelius Spann acknowledged as his godparents. He was later baptized on July 24th, 1994, by the late Reverend Mack C. Davis at Second Missionary Baptist Church. He continued as a member of Second Missionary Baptist Church for many years until joining Christ Community Church under the leadership of Pastor Daryn D. Crenshaw.
Donovan leaves to cherish his precious memory, his loving parents Donald J. Sanders and Shelia Y. Stewart (Paul Crayton), grandmother: Doris Stewart; sister: Treva (Dwight) Anderson; uncle: Kevin Stewart Sr. of Minnesota; aunts: Sonja Rachal of California; Deboria Sanders and Terrie Sanders of Alabama, Anita (Jeremiah) Sanders; special cousins: Peter Bland, Shahmal Anthony, Toya Sanders, Krisey Sanders, Kimberly Hoppe, Taylor James, Kevin Stewart Jr., Joy (Abraham III) Simmons, Allisia Stewart, Desiree Veasey, Monique West; Sherri Garret-Jackson; three nephews and one niece, special friends: Chauncey Mayfield II, Corey Marten, Benjamin Davis, Ryan Torres, D. Joseph Ferris, Paul Zimdars, Kevin Fischer, Paula Crayton, Samantha Hansen and a host of other loving relatives and friends.
Donovan was preceded in death by, his grandfathers: Earnest Stewart and Morris Reaser, uncles: Archie Stewart, Boyce Stewart and Anthony Sanders, grandmother: Eva Sanders, great grandfather: Ira Stewart; great grandmothers: Azzie Stewart, Adella Harper and Eliza Sanders.
Family and friends are invited to meet on Friday, December 10, 2021, at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church 1123 Center Street, Racine, WI, for a visitation from 10:00 am -11:00 am and homegoing service officiated by Pastor Daryn D. Crenshaw at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park.
Raquel Jackson and family says
Love you Shiela and I’m praying for you and your family
Brenda Allen says
This is one of the most beautiful obituaries I’ve read. and is right on point! Well done! Donavon was sooo sweet and compationate, caring a far cry from most young people today he really cared it breaks heart that he is gone may he rest in peace. Until we all meet again in the resurrection of God’s people 🙏
Dawn Ramsey says
My sincere condolences to Sheila and the rest of the Stewart family. So sorry for your loss. Keep your hand in God’s hand and he will see you through.
LISA FARR says
Sheila so so sorry I remembered when you showed me at Ridgewood pictures of your SON and we talking about HIS HAIR YOUR MOTHER HAIR AND MY MOTHER such a DEAR HANDSOME YOUNG MAN FROM MY MOTHER AND I WE ARE PRAYING FOR THE FAMILY MAY THE DEAR LORD COMFORT YOU ALL THROUGH THIS STORM 🙏❤♥💙 GOD BLESS 🙌🙏
Brenda Anne Rodgers. says
May God continue to bless the family. You all will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. We are truly just devastated and heartbroken.
Jessica Bates says
Sheila so sorry for your loss. Praying for you and your family
Nadia Franklin says
I send my prayers and love to the family. Growing up at church with Donovan I will always cherish our friendship. I ran into Donovan a few years back at a red light when he lived here in Florida. I was glad we were able to connect and hang out a few times before he moved back. You will be missed.
Anonymous says
So sorry to hear of your Loss . You and family are in my prayers .
Wilma Hayes and Family says
My prayers and condolences to the family
Willie and Daris Hodges says
My sincerest sympathy and deepest condolences are extended to the family and friends of Mr D. The memory of his smile and his respect for the well being of others will live in our hearts forever. Rest in peace knowing that you made your parents proud during the 35 years that you graced this earth.
The Poole Family says
Shelia words cannot express the feelings that you have . We are truly at a loss of words. We are 🙏i ng that God will be your Guide at a time like this.
Ida Simmons says
So sorry for your loss. May God give you the peace that passeth all understanding.
Jeri St. Amand says
You do not know me but I grew up in Racine and get obit updates as I moved out of state. I was shocked about someone so young, smart, accomplished, and oustanding in life passing on to their next life. I send all of you my deepest and most sincerest and deepest condolences and prayers at this very difficult time. What an outstanding accomplished and beautiful person and man Donovan was and what a beautiful obituary about his great accomplishments and life!! We always question why God takes the good and the best so young. May the memories, good times, and great accomplishments of Donovan live on and warm your hearts forever and bring smiles to your faces. Be very very proud of the fine man and person Donovan was and thank you for raising such a beautiful and accomplished smart person that God has taken from this earth way too soon. I think God needed Donovans help in heaven and I am so very very sorry for your loss. Prayers to and for you all. 🙏
Bonnie Gardner Oliver says
My condolences to you Sheila and Donald Joe and the rest of the family. May he rest in perfect peace with The Lord😔❤
Garry Jones says
Cuz,
I’m sending my prayers to you and the family in this time of need. May God watch over you , during this very difficult time. I love you.
Jonathan Nicks says
My condolences and prayers are with the Family 🙏🏽
Shahmal Anthony says
Cousin – i could write a book about us but my heart is hurting cause your gone and your resting i know u gone watch over us just like u always did love u Dee
Claribel Camacho and Familyh says
To Shelia and Donald: I am praying God provide you the strength during this trying times. My heart aches for you all and I will continue to pray for the family that also loved this beautiful, handsome, intelligent and spiritual child. I will keep you close to my heart. You did a phenomenal job raising Mr. D and his life accomplishments show the support and love he received from you all, but specially from Shelia as a strong loving mother. The memory of the first time when I met him at 4 years of age, his beautiful, loving and kind smile. You knew that a beautiful soul resided in there. Until we meet again, Mr. D…..You will be missed by many. Prayers for the family, especially for Mom.
Marika Gory says
I was in shock when i heard Donovan passed …. ill never forget his smile … i was blessed to have went to prom with him we had so mu h fun ! very much a gentleman more like family than a friend … get ur rest “smarty pants ” (what i always called him when i saw him) you will be missed . Sending my condolences to the family
Stacey Moore & Family says
Condolences and prayers to the Stewart family
Joselyn Davis says
Sending prayers love and my condolences to you and your entire family, uncle Kevin and friends Shelia. This was beautiful and made me laugh thinking about his beautiful hair! 😊 God bless and keep you all 🙏🏽
Joann Hayes McMorris says
Sending my prayers to Shelia and family.
Sharron James says
My Condolences to the family I pray god gives you the strength to endure this task
Michelle Hudson says
Sheila
My heart goes out to you during this time. I’m so sorry for your loss. My prayer is that God comforts and strengthens you during this time.
Lala Grandberry says
Rest up I remember when u was lil grow up Howe st much love
Asewanetta Bonner & MJ says
Shelia continuous prayer and support for you ,Paul, Paula and your family! May God keep you covered by the blood! Sorry about your loss! Blessings Always! 🙌🏾 🙏🏾
Edmond and Marketa Davis says
Sending prayers and condolences to the family. It will be a difficult road ahead. We pray that you all will find, peace and comfort.
Clementine Green says
Shelia
My condolences to you family, praying God’s peace and love will comfort you as you grieve your loss. Trust God he will strengthen your heart.
Love you,
Sandra Carter says
So sorry for your lost.
Peggie Veasey-Days says
Oh Sheila, I pray that God gives you comfort. This is a hard one. Donovan, such a beautiful soul, inside, outside, physically and spiritually. When our kids were growing up, in their little group he was the “good kid”. I used to call him the “perfect kid”. Even with some limitations due to his health, he surpassed all expectations, and excelled at any and everything he did in life. He will never be forgotten, he was a bright shining star in all our lives. My condolences to the Stewart and Sanders families.
Jamie Marshall says
My prayers are with the family
Jeanette Mcmillian says
My thoughts and prayers are with Praying God will comfort and keep you.
Lekiasa Sanders says
You will always be my Lil cuzin Love & Missing you
Charles m claybrook says
My condolences to the stewart and Sanders family will be sadly missed. Lots of memories God bless
Barbra Buckley says
To Shelia and Donald, I pray that, God carry you thru this storm of heart break, may Donovan’s spirit and the memories of his goodness will continue to live in your hearts and mind. May the memory of his smile warm your heart. Donovan was such precious gift that God gave to you both, In return this beautiful soul gave his unconditional love to both of you. As a parent, I’m praying for you for today and the days ahead that God will heal your hearts.
God Bless
Adrian Warren and family says
Our love and sympathy go out to the Stewart and Sanders families. May the Almighty keep you in his bosom in this time of grief. We love you all
Joyce Butler-Smith says
To Donald Joe, Shelia, and family:
Our heartfelt condolences to you in the lost of your precious son Donovan. May God comfort you during this difficult time.
Buddy, Joyce, DeVonda, and DeNessa
Atlanta, GA
JAMES MADDEN SR says
Sending my sincere condolences
James Earl Sr
Sicarra Shiree says
There are no words to say how much I will miss you. Just two weeks ago we were talking about playing kick ball and basketball at the center. My heart goes out to you and your family especially your mom. Save me a seat I heaven
Harris-Price Family says
Sincerest condolences to you and your family. May God continue to bless, keep and strengthen you.
Vickie Doss says
Sheila, I’m sending hugs & prayers to you & your family with my deepest condolences.
Denise McWhorter says
My Condolences to the families of Donvon, especially his Mother was like a sister to me she was their with me when I lost my son and it hurts that I couldn’t be with her on this Day. This Day being my son’s Birthday on Donovan’s going hm Day life is filled w/ uncertainties, May God cover you Shealia w/ his love and Healing…I love you sis💞✨🌟
Denise Freeman says
To Sheila and family:
I am sending my condolences to you on the death of your son. May God keep you in his care and guide you though this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jasmine S says
Love Always Cousin Jasmine ! I’ll Cherish The Memories We Did Make ! Rest In Paradise D
Maggie Cobb says
My heart felt sympathy goes out to you an your family May God give you comfort an strength during this difficult time .🙏🏽💕
Walinda Riley & family says
Sheila, Shalmal, Mrs Stewart & the rest of the family you have my deepest condolences.. May god comfort you through this difficult time
Juanita ,Shusheila Almond says
Our love,prayers and condolences are with and your family in this time of lost. My God comfort you thru this storm.
Shirley J Billingsley says
To: Shelia & Family
I extend my deepest sympathy to you all. My heart is heavy with sadness for your loss and I’m praying for strength and comfort for your entire family and also for the Sanders family during this difficult time–much love and hugs to you all.
Reverend David R. Green/Gregg Chapel says
To the Stewart and Sanders family we pray for your strength and healing. I did not get to personally meet Donovan, but what an accomplished young man! Please know that our church family will certainly uplift you to God. You have our sincere and deepest sympathy. Hold tight to God.
Vivian Scales says
To Sheila and Stewart familyKeeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Love you all. Scales family
Vanessa G Butler says
To the Stewart and Sanders family,
My deepest sympathy and condolences on the loss of your dear Donovan.
Such a sweet person inside and out, God has truly gained an Angel. May you Rest In Paradise.
Frozene Lott-Hayes says
Shelia and Family;
It is my prayer that God will cover you and your family with his peace and comfort continuosly. His love for you is unconditional and he won’t fail you. Memories is one of God’s greatest gifts he has given us.
I want to encourage you that much of your strength and joy will come when you think on the great memories of your son. I never met Donovan, but from the reading of his obituary and viewing of his service, your son was an accomplished youngman and I am sure God is well pleased. Praying for you….
Jo Ann (Hunter) Hattix says
The prayers of the Hunter and Anderson families go up for the family in the days to come.
Justine Terry says
My Condolences Sheilia I just found out today. May God Strengthen you .
Melinda Hadley says
To Sheila, Donald Jo and family,
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Know that you and your family are in my prayers.
Joyce Shelton-Smith says
Sorry for your loss. Praying for family.