Governor Anderson, was born on September 29, 1942 in Hearne, Texas to Eli and Jesse Lee Anderson. The sixth child of eight children, he grew up in Dallas where attended Julius C. Frazier Elementary School and James Madison High School. He attended college classes at North Lake and Richland College. In 1966 he was drafted to the United States Army where he served in the 83rd Transportation Division.

After the Army he drove for several beverage companies including Pepsi Cola, Dr. Pepper and Coca Cola to name a few. Always the entrepreneur, he sold real estate and owned and operated Associated Construction Company.

Governor loved to sing. He was once vocalist in the Jolly George Band. He often lent a voice to the choruses at church. In July 9, 1966 he married the love of his life Mayrene Fite. Together they settled in Oak Cliff and raised two daughters. In 2006 he got one of the greatest roles of his life when he became PaPa to his grandson Ryan Donaldson.

Governor was baptized as a young man. He believed in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He enjoyed Bible Study class and cherished his role as a deacon. Governor also loved dinners at Texas Road House, talking politics and religion and any team who played the Dallas Cowboys. He was the life of any party with an infectious laugh and a quick wit.

Governor leaves to cherish his memories: wife, Mayrene; children, Perry Mason, Sharrell Mason, Shannon Anderson and Qiana Donaldson; grandchildren, Tiffany Mason Wilkerson, Arielle Wilks, Gabrielle Mason, Ryan Donaldson and grand dog Pippa (Woop); three great granddaughters; siblings, Vater Traylor and Gilda Cousey; and a host of relative and friends.