With grace, dignity, and a life defined by love and generosity, Vivian Therese Boone Sanders entered eternal rest in the early morning hours of Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the age of eighty-eight. Born on November 17, 1937, in Summerville, South Carolina, to Joshua and Ermine Boone, Vivian was a cherished daughter, wife, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend whose presence touched countless lives.

Affectionately known as “Nana,” Vivian was baptized at an early age at Brownsville Community Church of God. She was educated in Dorchester School District Two and graduated from Alston High School. She later attended South Carolina State College before beginning a distinguished career in telecommunications. Vivian worked as an operator for New York Telephone Company/AT&T for more than 30 years, first in New York City and later in the Charleston area after returning home to South Carolina. She retired in 1995, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, dedication, and kindness.

Vivian met the love of her life William “Joe” Sanders in seventh grade while attending Alston High School. Their union was blessed with two daughters, Marsha Denise Sanders and Tammy Sanders Reynolds (Michael). Joe and Vivian shared 68 beautiful years of marriage, filled with adventure, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Vivian especially loved traveling with family and friends, exploring new cities and countries, and cheering on her beloved South Carolina State Bulldogs at sporting events and tailgates.

Vivian lived a life of service and community. She was a devoted usher at Brownsville Community Church of God and an active member of the Brownsville Community Civic Association, where she received the Civic Association Honors Award in 2010. She supported her daughters wholeheartedly—volunteering with the local Girl Scout troop and chaperoning the Summerville High School Band during competitions and memorable trips to Disney World.

Vivian had a gift for making people feel seen, valued, and welcomed. A quick trip to the grocery store often turned into a joyful reunion filled with laughter. She never met a stranger and had a remarkable ability to connect with everyone in the room—from the youngest child to the eldest elder. Her vibrant personality, warm smile, and genuine interest in others made her unforgettable.

Vivian was preceded in death by her parents, Joshua and Ermine Ross Boone, and her sisters, Delores Boone Black and Geraldine Boone Bolden.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her devoted husband Joe, her loving daughters Marsha and Tammy, her caring son-in-law Michael, and her treasured granddaughter Jordyn. She is also survived by her sister Chattie Anne Boone, her brother Roderick D. Boone (Betty), her godchildren Bernard, Tammy, Marion, and Lauren Kelly, and three generations of cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.

Vivian’s life was a testament to love, faith, family, and community. Her legacy will continue to shine brightly through all who were blessed to know her.