It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Grant Sanders, Jr., who passed away on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, in Irving, Texas. Mike was born on August 31, 1966, to Jean Kelley and brought immeasurable joy to all who knew him throughout his 59 years.
Throughout his life, Mike pursued his passions with dedication and heart, building a legacy rooted in family and service. In 1995, Mike co-opened the Spirit Grille in Irving, Texas, where he delighted in his passion for cooking and serving others. A few years later, Mike moved to Southeast Texas, where he would meet the love of his life, Lisa Lynn Hanks. Mike and Lisa built a beautiful life together raising their children and making countless memories with their grandchildren. Mike and Lisa also opened Signature Manufactured Homes, which they owned and operated for 23 years. In 2024, Mike and Lisa returned to Irving so they could once again own and manage the Spirit Grille. Mike returned to his love for running a restaurant, creating recipes, and serving others with the warmth and dedication that defined his character.
Mike’s kind and caring nature was evident in his remarkable ability to make each person he met feel valued and loved. He cherished time spent with family and friends, often gathering loved ones around the table for his legendary prime rib on Christmas Day, homemade biscuits and gravy on mornings at the beach house, or his famous brisket and ribs that won hearts at barbecue cook-offs. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his friends and family, especially at Lake Fork or at his ranch in Henrietta. Mike was also an avid outdoorsman and adventurer who loved hiking, camping, cycling, and traveling with his loved ones. His infectious sense of humor and larger-than-life presence brought joy, laughter, and light everywhere he went, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Lisa Hanks Sanders; his two beautiful daughters Britlyn Michelle Sanders and Blakleigh Grant Sanders, as well as his cherished bonus-children J’me Blanchard and Loreal Blanchard; his precious grandchildren, Hadlee, Conner, Trace, Paris, Branson, Tynlee, London, and Kingston, who affectionately knew him as “Big Daddy”; his mother, Jean Kelley; his brother Shane Sanders (and wife Vanessa); and his sister Donna Hanson. Mike is also survived by numerous other beloved family members and friends including Skyler, Bailey, Ryan, Trevor, Gregory, Jerry, Carol Sue, Ricky, Christina, Raegan, Cody, Monica, Kayla, Jami, Terry, Kris, Jason, Kelly, Paul, and Kim along with many more wonderful friends and family.
He was preceded in death by his father, Jerry Kelley.
Mike will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we gather to honor his memory, we aspire to carry forward Mike’s generous spirit and deep love for his family and friends that defined his extraordinary life.
Please join us on Saturday, November 1st, 2025, at Rolling Oaks Funeral Home located at 400 Freeport Pkwy, Coppell, Texas 75019. Visiting with family and friends will begin at 1:30 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at 3:00 p.m. at the same location.
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