Martha A Sanders

Martha Bell Sanders, born on January 18, 1956, in Harlem, New York, to Mattie R. Howzer Bell and Broadus Bell, Sr., entered eternal rest surrounded by the love of her family. Raised in the P.T. Barnum Apartments of Bridgeport, Connecticut, Martha was the eldest of nine children—a role she embraced with fierce love. She cared for, protected, and guided her siblings, who looked up to her with admiration and gratitude. She attended Bridgeport Public Schools, and shortly after graduating high school, married her beloved husband, Terry A. Sanders. From this union came two cherished children: Terry A. Sanders, Jr. and Tyisha M. Sanders.

As a proud military wife, Martha traveled the world alongside her husband. One of their most memorable assignments was in Panama, where she embraced the culture, community, and way of life, making it a second home in her heart. Upon returning to the United States, Martha worked as a secretary for General Electric and later continued her service to others through her work at the YMCA Family Shelter as a Maturity Works employee. A natural giver, she spent countless hours volunteering with nonprofit organizations, always offering her time, compassion, and encouragement to anyone who needed it.

For those blessed to know her, Martha was a true songbird. She grew up singing in the church choir and carried music with her everywhere she went. Her voice—warm, soulful, and filled with emotion—was a gift she shared freely. Music was her passion, and she even sang in a band, proudly taking the stage as the lead singer. Martha loved people deeply, and people loved her just as deeply in return.

Martha leaves to cherish her memory her loving mother, Mattie Bell, her devoted daughter, Tyisha M. Sanders; her beloved grandchildren, Cory'on Harris and Sanai Guinyard; and her siblings Broadus (Nicole), Gary (Linda), Tony, Dwight, Daris, and Cheryl.

She is reunited in peace with her father, Broadus Bell, Sr.; her siblings Derwin, James, and Bryon; and her beloved son, Terry A. Sanders, Jr.

Although Martha faced life struggles and health challenges, her life remained a beautiful song—an unforgettable composition of perfect and imperfect melodies woven with love, compassion, resilience, and joy. Her melody, her light, and her infectious smile will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.