Joel A. "Doc" Sanders, Ph.D March 7, 2022 It is with extreme sadness that we announce our brother Joel passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with thyroid cancer at age 61. Joel was born on July 15, 1960 in Syracuse, NY – son of the late Donald R. Sanders. He is survived by his mother, Shirley J. Sanders of AZ; sister, Julie E. Sanders of AZ; brother, Ralph G. (Sandra) Sanders of GA; niece, Megan M. Sanders, nephew, Jake D. Sanders; uncle, Kenneth Blair; spouse, Josie Sanders; special family friend, Catherine Murphy; several cousins and many friends. Joel resided in the central New York area for most of his life. He graduated from LaFayette High School. He earned a bachelor and doctorate degree in psychology from Newport University. In 1982 – he became an ordained minister where his journey in service to others began. Joel served as the clinical director of Forensic Consultants Ltd. in Syracuse, NY for 25+ years where he helped his patients overcome addiction and build new lives. Joel was also a paramedic EMT and firefighter for 35+ years. He will be remembered as a kind soul, dedicated 1st responder and loving brother and son. His passion was his work and his patients. He had as a sense of calling, a willingness and he devoted his entire life to helping others. Visitation will be held from 2 pm to 5 pm on Sunday, March 13 at Eaton-Tubbs Fayetteville Chapel, 7191 East Genesee Street, Fayetteville, NY. A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Monday at Eaton-Tubbs Fayetteville Chapel. Interment will directly follow at Onondaga Valley Cemetery, 2500 Valley Drive, Nedrow. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Joel's memory may be made to Hope Lodge, American Cancer Society, New York City, NY https://donate3.cancer.org/ For guest book, please visit: www.SCHEPPFAMILY.com

Published by Syracuse Post Standard from Mar. 8 to Mar. 10, 2022.