Florine Marie (Kirby) Sanders

Ms. Florine Marie (Kirby) Sanders, age 81, of Durham, NC transitioned to eternal rest on Monday, April 14, 2025, at her residence.

Obituary

Ms. Florine Marie Kirby Sanders, 81, transitioned to eternal rest at her residence in Durham on April 14, 2025.

Born on May 6, 1943, in Pittsboro, Florine was the beloved daughter of the late Willie Couch, Jr. and Nettie Kirby Williams. She grew up in Pittsboro and was a proud graduate of Horton High School.

Following her passion for helping others, Florine pursued higher education at Watts Hospital’s School of Nursing in Durham, where she earned her Diploma in Nursing in 1979.

For nearly three decades, Florine dedicated her professional life to UNC Hospitals as a skilled surgical nurse, where her compassionate care touched countless lives. Her colleagues remember her for her steady hands, calm demeanor, and unwavering dedication to her patients.

Outside of her fulfilling career, Florine was a member of Hamlet Chapel CME Church in Pittsboro and was a gifted singer. She used her talent to sing with gospel groups on various occasions, spreading joy to all that heard her sing.

Florine also found joy in cooking her famous spaghetti, traveling to new destinations, and relaxing with her favorite culinary shows. Her warm kitchen was often filled with laughter and the delicious aromas of her cooking as she welcomed family and friends.

Florine is preceded in death by her brother, Walter Lee Couch, and sister, Mary Alberta Couch Hatley.

Florine leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory: three sons, Richard Sanders (Sonye’), Steven Sanders, and Todd Sanders; two grandchildren, Zachariah Sanders-Featherstone and Amani Sanders; bonus granddaughter, Alaina Randolph; three sisters, Evelyn Riggsbee (William), Martha Caldwell (Henry), and Brenda Couch Thompson (William); one brother, Eddie Williams, Jr.; Best friend/ ”Adventure Buddy,” Alberta Atwater; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Florine’s gentle spirit, nurturing nature, and loving presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

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