Cornelius Lee Sanders affectionately known as "Bookey" was born June 7, 1987 to Shelia Sanders Pittman (Charles) and the late Manchie Hooper in Shelby, MS.  He departed this life on January 24, 2022.  He is preceded in death by his father, Manchie Hooper, a sister, Dinesha Sanders, and a son , Jeremiah Willis.

Cornelius accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Lampton Street Church of Christ.  Cornelius received his formal education at John F. Kennedy Memorial High School.  Cornelius was an amazing young man - humorous, loving and caring, who dearly loved his family.  He enjoyed swimming, playing basketball, playing cards, video games, spending time with his children, and hanging out with friends and family.

Cornelius leaves to cherish his memories; his lovely mother, Shelia Sanders Pittman of Cleveland, MS; his step-father, Charles Pittman of Cleveland; three sister, Emma (Damian) McKnight of Walls, MS; Shemeda Sanders of Southaven, MS; and LaShondra (Tyrus) McClain-Stanley of Dublin, GA; and Kalondrick McClain of Dublin, GA; seven children, Renae Sanders of St. Louis, MO; Keydrah Sanders of Decatur, IL, Kaydrianna Sanders of Decatur, IL, Cornelius Sanders, Jr. of Decatur, IL, Noah Sanders of New Berlin, IL, Josiah Willis of Springfield, IL, K'yndall Lyman of Springfield, IL and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.