James Harry Sanders III

Dr. James Harry Sanders III passed away on February 20, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of strength, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to his family, friends, his students and the community he served.

Born on December 7, 1951, Dr. Sanders (Jim) was the first child and beloved son of James H Sanders II and Peggy Jo Sanders Ross. From an early age, he demonstrated determination, intelligence, and a deep sense of purpose that would guide him throughout his life.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, James H Sanders II and sister Loree Sanders. He is survived by his sons James Hart Sanders IV and Yarrow Elijah Sanders, stepdaughter Fether Jayne Morrow and his cherished grandchildren James Tyler Sanders, Kristine Ariel Sanders, and Sarah Jayne Sanders. He is survived by his mother, Peggy Jo Sanders Ross and siblings Lynda Patterson, John Sanders, PD Wooldridge, Jack Sanders and their families. He also leaves behind many extended family members, former students, colleagues and friends who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts.

Dr. Sanders devoted his professional life to arts education, where he inspired creativity, discipline, and a love for learning in countless students. He believed deeply in the transformative power of the arts and worked tirelessly to encourage expression, excellence and opportunity for those he worked with and taught. His commitment to education, mentorship, writing and documentation defined both his career and his character.

Dr. Sanders earned his PhD at the University of North Carolina Greensboro, his MFA at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale and his BFA at Arkansas State University. Jim served as an Associate Professor in the Department of Arts Administration, Education and Policy at the Ohio State University. Dr. Sanders’ academic presentations and publications cross fields of education, art, and historic studies and are well revered. Prior to arriving at The Ohio State University, Sanders worked in the nonprofit sector for 26 years. From 1977-1987 he served as Executive Director of the Ozark Craft Guild located in Mountain View Arkansas, an Arkansas craft cooperative of both traditional and contemporary artisans. From 1987-2003 he served as Executive Director of the Sawtooth Center for Visual Art in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He managed one of the largest community schools of visual art in the United States, and during his last three years in that post he founded the Arts Based Elementary School, a North Carolina Public Charter School.

Jim will be remembered not only for his professional achievements, but for the inspiration, kindness and love he gave so generously. His legacy will continue through the many lives he touched through education and the arts.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim was a devoted father and grandfather. He found great joy in sharing his love for travel, knowledge, encouragement and time with his family. His wisdom and steady presence were a source of strength and inspiration to those who knew him.

A service to celebrate the life of Dr. James H. Sanders III will be held at James Cemetery in Cave City, AR. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the organization or charity of your choice in his honor.

Arrangements are by Qualls Funeral Homes.