Javan Ari Sanders, 36, of Charleston died suddenly on January, 8, 2023.

Though his light will never be completely extinguished, Javan continues to shine through his babies, the lights of his life, Lariyah (12), Nyaira (9), Caelan (7), Audrielle, (5) and Elona (4).

Because Javan defined family as so much more than genetics, the number of people who feel his loss is incalculable. He had an ability to collect and affect people that made you want to be in his light.

Javan was a graduate of Avon Grove High School, where he excelled in both football and track, clowned around in class and impacted everyone. Javan attended Valley Forge Military Academy, before moving to Charleston. He was a very talented musician, a gifted drummer, and he often showed his love by singing in voice messages to his family and friends.

In photos of Javan, you feel as if he is looking directly at you, which is how it felt to know him. His unapologetic (and often dark) sense of humor and desire to connect with people drew you to him. To love Javan required that you also laughed with your whole body, at anything and everything. Javan brought the fun with him everywhere he went. He was grateful for all of the parts of his life, even the hard ones. He was wise, humble, and so kind. If we can take anything from this unimaginable loss, let it be that we become more present everyday. So, take a selfie in your car, sing loudly to a song that makes you happy, and find something to laugh about.

Javan is survived by his mother, Agnes Sanders of Philadelphia, PA; the mother of his children, Deanna Myers of Charleston; brother, Jameil Sanders and his wife Shakea of Philadelphia, PA; sister, Keesha Wilcox of Philadelphia. He is also mourned deeply by his Avon Grove Community, including his "other mom" Sandy Herbst (Dan); sister, Kelli Bruzik (Chris); brothers Kyle Hitchens (Amy) and Kory Hitchens (Michelle).

We will be celebrating Javan first, in West Virginia, with a home going service at 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 21 at King of Glory International, 302 Delaware Ave, Charleston. Visitation will be held an hour prior to the service at the church. Then, on February 4 at 10:30 a.m Javan's light will be celebrated at West Grove United Methodist Church, 300 North Guernsey Rd.,West Grove, PA.

Contributions in Javan's memory can be made to the GoFundMe campaign in his name, to be put into a trust so that his children may also know how brilliantly he shined.

Arrangements are in the care of Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar.