Esther Sanders

The life of Esther Sarah Nickens-Sanders began on the morning of August 16, 1916. She was the fourth child born to Sarah and James Nickens of Lancaster, Virginia. Following the death of her father, she spent much of her early childhood with her grandmother. Esther’s family relocated to Baltimore. She was educated in the Baltimore City Public School System.She became the devoted wife of Aubrey Arnett Sanders in 1934, a union that lasted sixty-eight years. Two children, Aubrey Arnett Sanders, Jr. and Regina Nannette Sanders, came from this union.In the early 1950’s, Esther and Aubrey moved to the Garwyn Oaks Neighborhood where she resided for the remainder of her life.Esther attended Coppin State College and received a degree in Early Childhood Education. She taught at St. Cecilia’s Catholic School for a year before retiring a second time to care for her ailing mother.Esther and Aubrey became members of Augsburg Lutheran Church, where they faithfully served and attended until the decline in Aubrey’s health required full time and attention. Esther continued to support the church she loved financially, although unable to participate. She served with Lutheran League and the Women of Augsburg. She assumed leadership of the Brownies during the 1960’s. Esther, along with Bernadette Temple, formed and Explorer Troop. In 1970, they organized the first Tutorial Summer Fun Camp. Baltimore City’s Department of Summer Camps, Parks and Recreation for supervising and conducting and A 1 Tutorial Camp recognized Esther’s achievements Another noteworthy accomplishment: Esther, along with Pastor Robert Adams, was responsible for the now Rev. Eric T. Campbell becoming a member of Augsburg, when he was just a young man counseling troubled youths.In 1984, Esther and Aubrey renewed their wedding vows on their 50th anniversary. Her beloved Aubrey became ill and for several years his declining health absorbed all her time. In 1997, Aubrey departed this life and Esther’s health began to fail. Her grandchildren became her life. She was devoted to them. Esther departed this life peacefully March 7, 2003. She leaves to mourn: one son, Aubrey Arnett Sanders, Jr., daughters, Regina Nannette Sanders and Sandra Jones, seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and a host of other relatives and friends.

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Esther Sanders

August 16, 1916 - March 7, 2003