Nina Renee Sanders

Nina Renee Huggins Sanders was a woman of grace, intellect, faith, and unwavering compassion whose life reflected a deep commitment to service, justice, and community, she lived a life marked by Born in Harlem, New York, on May 15, 1939, as the only child of Mr. Carl Huggins and Mrs. Thelma Huggins, Renee’s life journey reflected both breadth and depth purpose and generosity until she peacefully departed this life on January 19, 2026, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew and loved her.

Renee’s educational journey reflected her lifelong commitment to learning and advocacy. She attended school in New York and Tallahassee, Florida, including Florida A&M University High School, and later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Saint Leo College. She pursued graduate studies in Gerontology at Georgia State University, where she earned a Graduate Certificate, preparing her for a life’s work centered on dignity and care for older adults.

On December 16, 1962, Renee married her beloved husband, David Joshua Sanders, at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland. As a devoted military spouse, she embraced a life of service and adaptability, living throughout the United States and abroad, including residencies in Germany and Seoul, Korea. These experiences broadened her worldview and deepened her appreciation for people and cultures across the globe.

Renee devoted nearly three decades of professional service to Georgia Legal Services, where she served as a Certified Long-Term Care Ombudsman and for 26 years as the Ombudsman Coordinator for Northwest Georgia, overseeing advocacy across 15 counties. In this role, she was a steadfast defender of the rights and dignity of residents in nursing homes, personal care homes, and assisted living facilities. She investigated complaints, educated families and professionals, trained caregivers, supervised staff and volunteers, and worked tirelessly to ensure quality, ethical care for the aging population.

Her leadership extended into civic and cultural life. Renee served as President of the Douglas County Connection, President of the Douglas County Cultural Arts Council, and was a long-serving board member of the National Citizen Coalition for Nursing Home Reform in Washington, D.C. She was also Vice President of the Georgia Council of Community Ombudsmen and an active alumna of Georgia State University. In recognition of her impact, she was honored as one of Douglas County’s “Legends of the Year.” Renee was recognized at the national level for her advocacy of senior issues. Many of the nursing home “residents’ rights” that we have today are a direct result of her promoting inclusive practices, creating environments where seniors are valued. Her expertise and knowledge were valued. She was as a frequent guest author for the national publication, “Quality Board & Care”. She was a current member of the Statewide Long-term Care Ombudsman Advisory Board.

A woman of deep faith, Renee was a devoted member of First Presbyterian Church of Douglasville for 27 years, where she faithfully served in the honored role of Elder. She found great joy and spiritual nourishment in her church Bible study group and cherished the fellowship of her Friday morning “bagel group,” whose companionship and encouragement supported her spiritual journey and enriched her life.

Following the Legacy of her Mother, Renee was a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Renee enjoyed her friends which resulted in her membership in several social groups including, The Atlanta Women’s Club, Chicks On Da Breeze, The Pierians, Inc., The Society, Inc., The Shiities, and Divas On The Go. Renee was an avid traveler who visited more than 25 countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Russia, China, Sweden, and Thailand. Her curiosity, cultural appreciation, and love of learning were hallmarks of her vibrant spirit.

She is survived by her loving and devoted husband, David Joshua Sanders; her beloved cousins: Tawanna Miles and Family, Ruth Gadsen, Margaret Rasberry (Edward) Blackman and family, Dominique Miles, the family of the late Bishop Henry Allen Belin, Jr.; and a host of cousins and relatives who will forever cherish her memory.

Nina Renee Huggins Sanders lived a life of quiet strength, principled leadership, and faithful service. Her legacy endures in the lives she advocated for, the institutions she strengthened, the church she loved, and the family and community she so deeply enriched.

Messages of condolence may be sent to www.jones-wynn.com. Jones-Wynn Funeral Home & Crematory of Douglasville is in charge of the arrangements. (770-942-2311)