Martin Leonate Sands

A celebration of life for Mr. Martin Leonate Sands will be held today, Dec. 1, 2016 at 1 p.m. at the chapel of Smith and Sons Funeral Home, 923 Funderburg Drive in Monticello. Pastor Donna Marie Calix will deliver the eulogy.

Martin Leonate Sands was born on January 6, 1984 to Leon Mitchell and Jacqueline Williams Willis. He was raised by the late Lucian and Doris Louise Sands.

Leonate attended and graduated from Washington Park School and Monticello High School.

Being physically challenged, he never had the opportunity to play sports, drive or climb but he was always happy and had a big smile. He enjoyed listening, hearing, seeing, and riding in vehicles; including police cars, fire trucks and EMT vehicles. Flashing lights, sirens and Cop TV programs were his enjoyments.

When his family lived in Monticello he attended St. James A.M.E. Church.

He was called home on November 22, 2016 at his home in Loganville. His adopted parents, Lucian and Doris Louise Sands; and brother Christopher Jackson, Jr. preceded him in death.

Leonate leaves to cherish his memories, mother, Jacqueline Williams Willis of Milledgeville; brothers, Kenta Sands of Monticello, Freddie Sands of Eatonton, Samuel Sands of Atlanta, Brad Willis, Gary Pennamon both of Augusta, and Fredrico Willis of Iowa; sisters, Tissa Sands of Eatonton, Princess Sands of Monticello, Sarah Willis, Carol Pennamon both of Milledgeville, and Merissa Sands of North Carolina.

Also surviving are secial caretakers and nephews, Lucius Jenkins and Dexter Smith of Loganville and other relatives and friends.

Smith and Sons Funeral Home has charge of arrangements, 706-468-6625.