From the family of Juntwillis Allen Sanders. Loving Son, Brother, Uncle and Grandson.
Juntwillis Allen Sanders, age 33, of Erie, PA, transitioned peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, November 1, 2025. He was born on September 12, 1992, in Erie, PA, to Doris Jane Sanders and Barry Thompson. Juntwillis, affectionately known as JT, lived a life marked by kindness, service, and a deep love for family, faith, and community.
Juntwillis was a proud graduate of East High School’s Class of 2011. Juntwillis worked on the school’s newspaper during his Sophomore, Junior, and Senior year at East High School. Juntwillis went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Penn State Behrend College in December 2015. He also earned two additional certificates while attending Penn State Behrend College, one in Public Relations and another in Advertising, both awarded in May 2015. During his four years at Penn State Behrend he did Work Study, getting a job at Dobbins Dining Hall. There he provided meals for students and staff, leading him to be promoted to Assistant Manager during his Junior year in college. He also hosted a daily radio show, Behrend’s Voice on BVS, while attending Penn State Behrend.
Juntwillis landed his dream job on November 1, 2017, with Lilly Broadcasting as part of the WICU and WSEE’s Sales Department. He had the pleasure of training numerous sales associates as they joined the Sales Team. He received recognition as Sales Representative of the week several times, as well as top sales in his department alongside other colleagues. Through hard work and determination, Juntwillis earned the position of Account Executive in the Sales Department, a role he held until his unexpected passing. Through his work, Juntwillis developed strong and lasting relationships with his colleagues at Lilly Broadcasting, as well as with local businesses and nonprofit organizations throughout the Erie community he loved so dearly.
Juntwillis was a life long member of the Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church in Erie, PA, where his grandfather Rev. Willie Sanders Sr. was pastor for many years. Juntwillis carried on a proud family legacy of faith in God. As a small child his grandmother, the late Mildred Jean Sanders, would sing church Hymes with him. That was a special bond they shared and is where his love of music began. Growing up in his grandfather’s church, Juntwillis’ love for music deepened, and he sang in the choir throughout his life. He later went on to serve as the church’s Director of Music. He continued to serve faithfully at Hopewell even after his grandfather passed the mantle to his uncle, Rev. Willie Sanders Jr., as pastor. Juntwillis was both Director of Music and Deacon, roles which reflected his passion for worship and his musical gift. He played a vital role in organizing church activities and community outreach, always demonstrating a joyful heart and unwavering faith.
Outside of work and church, Juntwillis was known for his love of cooking. He found joy in preparing meals for family and friends, often filling the kitchen with laughter, music, and the comforting aromas of his favorite dishes. Whether it was Sunday dinner or a simple weekday meal, cooking was one of the ways he expressed his love for his family.
Juntwillis was known for his gentle spirit and selfless nature. He was the kind of person who would drop everything to help someone in need and was always the person you could count on. His warmth, humor, and genuine care made him unforgettable. His compassion touched all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Mildred Jean Tate Sanders; maternal great-grandparents, Bill Sr. and Ethel Luster Tate; his aunt Ethel Lee Sanders, cousins, Myteeki Sanders and Nataiva Sanders; paternal grandparents, Peggy Ann Aiken and Nathaniel Beason; paternal great-grand parents, Willis and Mary Jane Sanders.
He leaves to cherish his memory his right hand, his mother, Doris Jane Sanders, whom he loved unconditionally, with all his heart, she gave him the tools he needed to be successful in life. She taught him if you give respect, you will receive respect in return. His only brother, Jarvis Antwan Sanders, with whom he shared countless fun memories—from their childhood days growing up together to the moments they shared as adults, even collaborating in their professional careers. His sister-in-law, Hana Eisert-Wlodarczyk; and his cherished nephew, Theodore Allen Sanders who shares his middle name and who he enjoyed playing with so much, all of Erie, PA. He also leaves his beloved grandfather Rev. Willie Sanders Sr. and his uncle Pastor Willie Sanders Jr., who were not only guiding presences but true father figures and mentors in his life. His special cousin, Delisha Sanders, who was more like a sister to him. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins, his church family, his work family and a host of dear friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.
Juntwillis’ life was a testament to love, faith, and service. Though his time with us was too short, the light he brought to us and others will continue to shine brightly.
Family and Friends may call on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 from 4:00PM to 6:00PM., at Good Samaritan A.M.E. Church, 3209 Pennsylvania Avenue Erie, PA and may attend the Celebration of Life on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at 1:00PM at Good Samaritan A.M.E. Church Erie, PA, with Bishop Gary Brown officiating. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to House of Paradise Cremation and Funeral Services Inc., 701 East Avenue Erie, PA 16503.
