Hoyt Ray Sanderson, 86, of Mullins passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, surrounded by his family, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and love for his family and community. He was born in Dillon County on February 7, 1940, the son of the late Berry Sanderson and the late Juanita Johnson Sanderson.

Mr. Sanderson graduated from Lake View High School and went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Air Force for four years. He later dedicated his professional life to DuPont in Florence, South Carolina, where he worked in control maintenance. After 33 years and 8 months of faithful service, he retired.

A devoted man of faith, Hoyt was a member of Mullins First Baptist Church. He served as a deacon for four years and was an active member of the Who-So-Ever-Will Sunday School Class. For many years, he faithfully ensured the church's HVAC system was running properly—just one of the many ways he used his God-given talents to serve others. He found true joy in helping those in his community.

Hoyt enjoyed a full and meaningful life outside of work and church. His hobbies included fishing, golfing, and watching NASCAR racing. He especially enjoyed attending dirt track races with his son, Tim, and friends. He also cherished time spent traveling and making memories on family vacations.

A familiar face in the community, Hoyt faithfully visited Fred's each morning for breakfast, where he formed many lasting friendships and developed a deep love and appreciation for all who worked there. It was one of the many things he missed as his health declined.

Above all, Hoyt was a devoted husband, loving father, and loyal friend. His life was a testament to his faith and his love for others. For all who are reading this obituary, it was Hoyt's desire for everyone to make Jesus Christ, the Lord and Love of your life. For He is all that matters in this life and the life to come.

In addition to his parents, Hoyt was predeceased by two brothers, Jack Sanderson and Joe Pete Sanderson, and his great-nephew, Ian Greene.

He is survived by his loving wife of sixty-four years, Marian Rouse Sanderson; his son, Timothy Scott "Tim" Sanderson; his daughter, Lisa Sanderson Stordy and her husband, Jim; his granddaughter, Angel Ray Orlick and her husband, Jason, and a great-grandchild, Olivia Orlick.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 4, 2026, in the Fellowship Hall of Mullins First Baptist Church. Funeral services will follow the visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary of the church with Reverend Robbie Baxley officiating. Interment will be at Fork Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to MIB Agents (online), an osteosarcoma (bone cancer) support organization, in loving memory of Ian Greene, Hoyt's great-nephew, who lost his battle with this disease at the age of 12 or to Mullins First Baptist Church Christian Life Center, P.O. Box 443, Mullins, South Carolina 29574.

All thanks, honor, and glory be unto God for the life of a devoted servant, husband, daddy, and friend. In Jesus' holy name, Amen.

An online guestbook is available at www.mearesfh.com.

Mr. Sanderson and the family are in the care of Meares Funeral Home of Mullins.