MR. PHILL JEROME SANDERS

Mr. Phill Jerome Sanders, On the afternoon of Tuesday, July 8, 2025, the earthly journey of Mr. Phillip Smith — affectionately known as “Teen”— came to a peaceful close after a courageous battle with colon cancer. Teen was called home to be with his ancestors and the Lord, surrounded by love and the legacy he so graciously built.

Born Phill Jerome Sanders to the late Phil Smith Jr. and Theresa Smith, Teen was a beloved son, brother, father, and friend. He was preceded in death by his brother, Charlie Curtis Smith, his paternal grandparents, Phil Smith Sr. and Minnie Gray Smith, and his maternal grandparents, Thomas J. Sanders and Viola H. Sanders.

A proud native of Homerville, Georgia, Teen received his formal education at Clinch County High School, however, he developed his true mastery under the patient guidance of his late grandmother Viola Sanders. Deeply inspired by her teachings and nurturing spirit, Teen became a quiet master of horticulture and agriculture. For him, working the land was not just a means of income —it was how he honored his heritage, expressed his love, and nourished his soul.

Teen’s connection to the earth was sacred. He shared this passion with his sister, Leola Sanders, helping her tend her garden and joyfully harvesting the fruits of their shared labor. While living in Tampa, Florida with his brother Tony Smith, Teen established his own garden, cultivating a vibrant array of greens, tomatoes, squash, and many other vegetables. Anyone blessed to eat from Teen’s gifted hands tasted generations of love, care, and healing rooted in the traditions passed down by his grandmother Viola and their ancestors.

Teen’s green thumb extended far beyond food. He had a humble talent for growing beautiful flowers and lush plants. His love of the outdoors was part of his daily communion with nature and God. Teen found peace in the sun’s warmth and fresh natural air. He passed his immense knowledge onto others in the community, often helping neighbors start their own gardens, always eager to share what he had learned.

Hardworking and independent, Teen was known as a jack of all trades and a man of quiet perseverance. He rose before the sun, never needing an alarm clock, and could often be seen walking long distances, even from Homerville to Valdosta, simply to get where he needed to go. A strong will and free spirit drove Teen to live life on his own terms, sometimes with a rebellious twist, like the time he let his 13-year-old daughter drive his father’s Cadillac, much to her surprise and amusement!

Teen’s life was one of simplicity, strength, and service. He found joy in the small things, purpose in hard work, and love in every seed he planted.

Teen leaves behind a legacy of hard work and love through his two children, Phillip Bradley (Nakita) of Valdosta, GA and Brittney Smith (fiancée Desmond McCutchin) of Homerville, GA.

He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings, Rose Session of Waycross, GA; Minnie Williams (Bartow) of Naylor, GA; Charlie Sanders of Lansing, MI; Leola Sanders and Alphonso Sanders of Homerville, GA; Tony Smith (Portia) of Land O’ Lakes, FL; and Antonio MarCellus (fiancée Nancy Altidor) of Norfolk, VA.

His legacy continues through 12 cherished grandchildren, his goddaughter Jayda Edmonds, and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family. Among them are his special niece, Dr. Quinchele King-Williams (Andre’) of Lithonia, GA, and his dear cousins Linda Carter and Melissa Jackson.

Teen was blessed with many close friends who became family, including Warren Johnson, Anthony “Big Bookie” McNair, Norman Burns, Curtis Oliver, and Ken Brown. He also shared a special bond with his longtime employer, Gretchen James, and the many friends and neighbors whose lives he touched through his kindness, humor, warmth, and tireless spirit.

Please keep the family in prayer during this difficult time.

Services of care and comfort entrusted to the caring professionals of Fluker Funeral Home 985 Ossie Davis Parkway, Waycross, Georgia 31501

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