Robert J. Sanders 80 died Wednesday March 9 2005 at his Ormond Beach residence. Born in Bennettsville SC Mr. Sanders moved to this area in the 1940s. ?R.J. ? as he was known to close friends and extended family was a warm and generous man. He devoted his life to his family and long career with Eastern Airlines. He worked his way up from flight mechanic to co-pilot then finally achieving his goal as an Eastern Captain. An Army veteran of WW II Mr. Sanders was an avid traveler and visited numerous countries. One of the highlights of his career was flying the 1972 Miami Dolphins football team. He was a proud man always speaking with such pride of his children and grandchildren that his eyes would glisten upon mentioning them. He loved to tell his flight stories and humor with all his numerous jokes of abroad. We will all miss his voice and seeing his smile. We are all certain he is in Heaven flying over us in his 747 and watching upon us. He will be loved and missed forever. Rest well Captain Sanders. He is survived by his wife of 15 years Barbara; 2 daughters Ginger of Lincoln NE; Penelope of Phoenix AZ; 2 sons Douglas J. of Miami and Richard of Orlando; 9 grandchildren; his brother James Walker and his sister Nancy Odom both of Bennettsville SC; 5 step-children John Robert Jr. Ronald Gidget and Mary; also several step-grandchildren who loved and cared for him as their own. Condolences may be made via the family guest book at www.lohmanfuneralhomes.com. Arrangements are under the careful direction of the Lohman Ormond Funeral Home.