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Donald Taylor Sanland, 87, of Fayetteville, Ga., passed away April 6, 2021.
Mr. Sanland attended University of Tennessee where he received an associate degree. In 1956 he joined the Tennessee Army National Guard flying helicopters. He retired with the rank of Captain with 20 years of service. He was employed at Southern Airways in 1962, Republic Airlines and Northwest Airlines flying the Martin 404, DC3, DC9, and DC10 retiring after 31 years of service. Mr. Sanland was then employed by Richard Petty Motor Sports from 1997-1999 as personal and team pilot. He enjoyed his grandchildren, motor sports, golfing, restoring classic cars, piloting his own Aeronica Champ, the beach, boating and reaching out to friends and neighbors by helping them maintain their homes, autos, and any other mechanical device that required attention. He was an accomplished electrician, plumber, mechanic, and carpenter. He aided many others to acquire education or skills to compete in the work or social world.
Mr. Sanland is preceded in death by his father, Howard Sanland; mother, Mildred Sanland; and son Donald T. Sanland, JR. He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Janet Scocchera Sanland. Children: Barbara Rigsby (Scott) of Fayetteville, Ben Wallace (Erica) of Seattle, WA, Ashley McElwaney of Newnan, Lisa Free of Duluth. Grandchildren: Megan Rigsby (Brandon), Christian Kennedy, Ryan Free, Morgan Free, Levi McElwaney, Macey Williamson, Masai Wallace, Jozy Wallace.
Memorial Service for Mr. Donald T. Sanland, age 87 of Fayetteville, GA will be held Saturday, Apr 10, 2021, 11:00 AM at New Hope Baptist Church with Senior Pastor Al Mead officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to New Hope Baptist Church, (Children’s or Missions Dept.) or Fayette Samaritans Food Bank.
The Sanland family is being assisted by Georgia Cremation, 1086 Hwy 54 West, Fayetteville. Messages of condolence may be left at www.GeorgiaCremation.com.
Danielle Scocchera says
Sending our love and prayers to you and the rest of the family Aunt Janet!
Erica says
I am so shocked and sorry to hear the news about Poppy. I know how much he meant to all of you, and that you will miss him terribly. Poppy could seem stern, but oh, was he such a softie for his grandkids. He loved you all so much and showed it through doing: always fixing something or offering help or opportunity. He was a devoted husband of twenty six years and always cared for and protected you, Janet. He is a part of each of you, in your heart and memories, and will always be with you. I’m sending so much love your way and hope that sharing your memories of Poppy brings some comfort tomorrow. I will be thinking of you. ❤️
Debbi Duncan says
I’m very sorry for your loss. Don used to let me and my parent’s stay at his condo in Panama City Beach. FL For many years. My dad would repair all Don’s vehicles and friends vehicles for many years in trade for condo time.
I recently went to Panama City Beach to spread my parent’s ashes, as they wished. They felt like it was their 2nd home. I guess after 35yrs of going there it would feel like a second home.
If you plan on selling the condo, I would love the opportunity to see if I could purchase it.
Sincerely,
Debbi Duncan
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