Vertis Sanders

Vertis Sanders was born on January 8, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois and lived a life marked by quiet strength, unwavering kindness, and deep compassion for all who crossed his path. A proud veteran, he served his country with dignity, honor, courage, and valor as a Military Police Officer in the United States Army. After serving at home and abroad for seven years, Vertis returned to Berrien County, Michigan, where he worked for DC Cook Nuclear Plant.

Affectionately known as a “gentle giant,” he was the kind of man who never raised his voice, sought attention, or complained—often saying with a smile, “Well, since the complaint department is closed, I may as well stay quiet.” His gentle spirit and calming presence left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Vertis was blessed with a warm and loving family including grandchildren that he loved dearly. He enjoyed spending time with them, making them laugh with his funny faces and gestures—and he made the best grape Kool-Aid in the world, at least in the grandchildren’s eyes.

Vertis made his confession of faith. With that blessed assurance, after a long illness, he peacefully transitioned on August 27, 2025, surrounded by loved ones, at Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Vertis was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Mrs. Emma (Molette) Sanders; his father, Mr. Alex Sanders; and six brothers: Lewis, Charles, Carl, Perry, Terry Sanders, and Willie Hennard.

He will be affectionately remembered by the love of his life, Janice Davison, and his children Latisha Davison, Renee (Karl) Yates, Tenara (Jermaine) Taylor, Ashley Hubbard, Carla Favorite, Jonathan Favorite, Teneka Moore, and Tyrone Craven.  He is also survived by his siblings, Freddie Clemons, Alex (Shirley) Sanders, Cornelius (Nicole) Sanders, Willie Sanders, Ronald Sanders, Melvin (Trudy) Sanders, Gregory (Bridgette) Sanders, Danny (Kim) Sanders, Wendy (Averil) Taylor, Gerline Bass, and Gloria (Kevin) Amos.

He leaves behind 3 childhood (lifelong) friends Gregory Adkins, Jesse Calhoun, and Melvin Johnson, a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends.

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