Funeral Services for Brian Lee Sanders, Age 51 of Conway, Arkansas (formerly of Salem, Arkansas) will be held on Friday, June 19th, 2026 at The Byron Presbyterian Church, Salem, Arkansas, beginning at 2:00 PM. Visitation will precede the service, beginning at 1:00 PM. Interement will be in The Byron Cemetery, Salem, Arkansas.
Arrangements under the direction of The Barker Funeral Home, Salem, Arkansas.
Brian Lee Sanders, 51, of Conway, Arkansas, passed away on Monday, June 15, 2026, in Conway, Arkansas. He was born on October 21, 1974, in Salem, Arkansas to Howard Lee Sanders and Ruth Ann (Ingram) Shrable.
Brian lived a full and vibrant life shaped by hard work, devotion to his family, and a deep love for the outdoors. Brian grew up in Salem, where he developed his strong work ethic and competitive spirit early on. During his high school years, he was a standout athlete who earned numerous honors, a testament to the drive and determination that would define him throughout his life. That same passion carried him into adulthood, where he built a career that spanned several impressive chapters.
Brian worked as a commercial fisherman, spending long days on the water doing what he loved. He was also a skilled developer and home builder, approaching every project with a craftsman’s eye and an unrelenting commitment to quality. Whatever Brian set his mind to, he gave it everything he had, and the results always showed.
As much as Brian loved his work, nothing compared to his love for his family. He was a proud and devoted father, and some of his happiest moments were spent on the sidelines watching Brady and Gabby play sports. Whether he was cheering them on at a game, heading out for a day of hunting or fishing, or simply exploring somewhere new, Brian made the most of every moment with the people he cared about. His presence was steady, his enthusiasm was contagious, and his love was unmistakable.
Brian is survived by his life partner, Lottie Cushing of Conway, Arkansas; two sons, Brady Sanders of Conway, Arkansas, Patrick Jones of Chesterfield, Missouri; two daughters, Gabrielle Sanders of Conway, Arkansas, and Mailee Cushing of Conway, Arkansas; granddaughter, Juniper Jones of Chesterfield, Missouri; mother, Ruth Shrable of Viola, Arkansas; brother, Kevin Sanders of Viola, Arkansas, and step brother, Boyd Shrable (Shandle) of Nashville, Tennessee; along with the many family members and friends who were lucky enough to know his generous heart and tireless spirit. Those who knew Brian will remember a man who worked hard, played hard, and loved deeply. He left his mark on every life he touched, every home he built, and every adventure he shared with those closest to him. As family and friends gather to celebrate Brian’s life, may they find peace in the promise of Scripture:
He is preceded in death by his father (Howard Sanders), stepfather (Pascal Shrable), and grandparents (Jesse and Theda Sanders and Jerry and Jenice Ingram).
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted,” Matthew 5:4. Brian’s memory will continue to bring warmth and inspiration to all who carry it forward. Details regarding memorial services will be shared with family and friends.
