Eddie “Poppy” Gene Sanders Jr, 54, of Owensboro passed away May 17, 2026. He was born in Little Rock, AK, on June 6, 1971, to Rita Barron Eastham and the late Eddie Gene Sanders Sr.
Eddie proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1989 to 1993. His time in the military reflected his dedication, strength, and commitment to something greater than himself. Eddie loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, family, and friends. He enjoyed being surrounded by the people he cared about most, sharing stories, laughter, and good memories. He was also a big fan of college basketball and especially loved March Madness, never missing a chance to watch the games and following the excitement of the tournament.
Along with his father he is preceded in death by son Eddie Gene Sanders III.
Those left to cherish his memory include his children Morgan Elise Sanders, Jeffery Blake (Adrianne) Westerfield, and Tristan Cole (Lacey) Sanders; his mother Rita Barron Eastham; his grandchildren Liza, Jaycee, Warner, Breann, Oliver, Leilani, Catherine, Rowan and Laney who is on the way; his brother Chris (Angie) Sanders and his life- long best friends, Rocky and Shelly White.
Services will be Tuesday at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory. Friends and family are invited to visitation from 1:00 pm until the time of services at the funeral home.
Expressions of sympathy can be made by donation to Fraternal Order of Police lodge 16, 842 Ridgeway Dr, Owensboro, KY 42303. Envelopes will be available.
Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory is honored and privileged to be entrusted with the care of Eddie “Poppy” Gene Sanders Jr. Please leave condolence messages for the family of Mr. Sanders and sign the virtual guestbook at www.haleymcginnis.com.