Barbara Lee (Slack) Sanders, 74, of Tallmadge, Ohio, was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She went home to be with her Lord and Savior on February 1, 2023.

Barbara was born on September 28, 1948, to Eddie Slack and Lucy (Shelton) Slack. She graduated from East High School in 1966 and continued her formal education at the University of Akron. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Education in 1970 and her Master of Science degree in Education in 1975.

In the fall of 1976 at Robert Street Church of God, Barbara met Daniel Sanders – her best friend and the love of her life. They married June 11, 1977, and honeymooned in St. Thomas, setting off their decades-long partnership in life and travel.

In 1980, Barb and Dan welcomed Erika, their first and honored daughter. A year later, their family became complete with the birth of Autumn, their miracle child.

Barbara was the best wife and mother in the world. Her encouraging words, high standards and unconditional love helped Daniel, Erika and Autumn become the best versions of themselves. Whether they were launching a new business or teaching their daughters how to write in cursive, Barbara was there to help turn their dreams into reality.

In addition to being an exemplary wife and mother, Barbara was a talented educator. She dedicated her career to teaching students at Robinson Elementary, McEbright Elementary and many other Akron Public Schools. After retiring, she provided administrative support and so much more at Pathways Counseling & Psychological Services.

When Barbara wasn’t working, she loved traveling the world with Daniel, her family, and friends. Whether it was the glaciers of Alaska, the Great Wall of China or the streets of Old Jerusalem, Barbara saw it all.

Barbara accepted Jesus Christ as her savior and was baptized at a young age at Morning Star Baptist Church. As an adult, she faithfully worshiped at Arlington Church of God for more than 50 years. She was a longstanding member of the diaconate board, served as secretary of the church council, was a faithful greeter, volunteered with Youth Excellence Performing Arts Workshop (YEPAW) and established the marriage ministry together with Daniel.

Most importantly, Barbara loved Jesus Christ with her whole heart, and she served the Lord faithfully. She wholeheartedly believed in the power of prayer, and many counted on Barbara to pray when they couldn’t pray for themselves. She was a patient listener who offered wise and godly counsel.

Barbara’s gift of hospitality was unparalleled, and there was no problem that couldn’t be helped with her warm smile and a generous slice of her pound cake. The recipe will continue to evoke sweet memories of Barbara for years to come.

Barbara is preceded in death by her father, Eddie; mother, Lucy; stepmother, Evelyn (Carter) Slack and sister, Stephanie (Slack) Jackson.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Daniel Sanders; loving daughters, Erika (Sanders) Ransom and Autumn Sanders; son-in-law, Terris Ransom; granddaughters, Sydney Ransom and Sabrina Ransom; sister, Geraldine (Bridgeforth) Edding; brother, Jason Slack and a host of other family members and friends.

John 11:25 says, “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.’” Today, Barbara is more alive than ever before. She is whole and at peace celebrating with the saints of God at the throne of Jesus Christ forever.

Well done, good and faithful servant.