Romero Vaughn de LaReese Sanders

Romero Vaughn de LaReese Sanders, known as Romero LaReese, was born on

March 9, 1963, in Chicago, Illinois to the parents of Willie Petty and Mary

Sanders. He was an only child.

Romero attended Helen M Hefferan Elementary School in Chicago, IL

In December 1977, Romero, along with his family, moved to Portland, Oregon.

He attended Fernwood Middle School and Ulysses S. Grant High School. Romero

later continued his education at Portland Community College. Romero was

employed with various businesses throughout the Portland area.

Throughout his lifetime, Romero faced many personal challenges. His struggles

were finally turned to triumphs with his completion of a lifelong goal of being free

from strongholds. One of his greatest achievements was celebrating 15 years of

sobriety. Along with the support of his mentor, Michael, and other individuals,

Romero was able to establish a relationship of trust and perseverance that fostered

his newfound walk.

Romero surrendered his life to our Lord Jesus Christ three years ago at Bethesda

Christian Church, under the leadership of Pastor Barbara Neyland. He was an

active member and served in many ministerial roles. He was especially proud to

become a member of the church’s male singing group.

Romero was known for his style of fashion. Color and texture were never a

challenge for him. He could make a statement in any outfit he chose to wear. He

was always well dressed for any occasion.

He would wear a suit just to go to his favorite coffee shop to order a six-shot

expresso. Romero would dress to show his gratitude for living a life of sobriety

and thanking God for his deliverance.

Romero’s mother preceded him in death in 2013. He leaves to mourn two loving

aunts, Percy Burse and Alberta Womack, who loved and cherished him as their

son: both residing in Bellwood, Illinois. Also, his cousin Lela, who was at his side

during his time of need along with his longtime friend Eric. In addition to a host of

cousins, and all of his favorite people. His kindness and generosity will be greatly

missed.

We give thanks to our Heavenly Father for the gift of Romero Vaughn De

LaReese! Our lives were richly blessed by his presence.