Fallen Soldier Kennedy Sanders Honored in Hometown of Waycross

WAYCROSS, Ga. - The community of Waycross, Georgia, came together on Saturday to remember and honor Army Sgt. Kennedy Sanders, who was tragically killed in the line of duty overseas. The 24-year-old soldier's remains arrived at Jacksonville International Airport on Wednesday and were greeted by a solemn procession that made its way to Waycross, with hundreds of people lining the streets to pay their respects.

Sanders' journey home included a route that passed by her childhood home on Eads Street, before finally ending at Fluker Funeral Home on Ossie Davis Parkway. In a fitting tribute to her service and sacrifice, Waycross officials have announced that a section of Eads Street will be renamed "Kennedy L. Sanders Way," and June 30 will be commemorated as "Kennedy L. Sanders Day."

Sanders was one of three soldiers who tragically lost their lives during a drone strike in Jordan just two weeks ago. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden were present at Dover Air Force Base earlier this month to witness the return of Sanders and the other two Georgia soldiers who lost their lives in the same strike. President Biden personally called Sanders' parents to inform them that she would be posthumously promoted from specialist to sergeant, a gesture that deeply moved and appreciated by her family.

Described as "mini but mighty," Sanders had a passion for sports and coached children's soccer and basketball. She was also studying to become an X-ray technician. Her loss has deeply impacted the community, with many sharing fond memories of her spirit and determination. Friends and family remember her resilience after sustaining an injury while playing softball, remarking on her courage and strength as she bounced back even stronger.

The procession from the airport on Wednesday followed a route through Lem Turner and U.S. 1, bringing Sanders into Waycross, where it winded through town before arriving at the funeral home. On Friday, supporters will have the opportunity to pay their respects during the public viewing, which will be held from 1-8 p.m. at C.C. McCray City Auditorium. Those attending are encouraged to follow a schedule organized by the first letter of their last name.

In honor of Sanders' favorite color, the city of Waycross has declared Friday as "Wear Purple Day." Supporters are encouraged to wear purple, paying tribute to a remarkable individual who dedicated her life to service. Sanders' funeral service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Saturday at the Ware County Middle School Auditorium. Following the service, another procession will make its way through Waycross, leading to Oakland Cemetery on Alice Street, where Sanders will be laid to rest.

In lieu of flowers, the Sanders family has requested that contributions be made via Zelle to Oneida Oliver-Sanders at oneidaoliver@yahoo.com. This support will help honor Sanders' memory and assist her family during this difficult time.

The community of Waycross stands united in grief as they bid farewell to Sgt. Kennedy Sanders, a brave soldier whose selfless service and indomitable spirit will forever be remembered.