"Life is so much better with you in it" - Derek Jeter's sister Sharlee pens loving tribute to their dad Sanderson Charles on his birthday

Long before Derek Jeter would play beneath the bright lights of Yankee Stadium, it was the shortstop's father, Sanderson, whose tireless energy was responsible for Jeter's young career.

A lifelong baseball fan, and a father who has made countless sacrifices, Sanderson Charles Jeter remains adored by his children. In honor of his birthday on November 12, Derek's sister Sharlee took to Instagram to share her father's loving impact, and thank him.

"Happy Birthday, Dad! This life is so much better with you in it. We love you and thank you for all the laughter, wisdom and love you’ve given to us every single day! Today is your day, G-Daddy." - sjeter2

Sharlee's post included images of Sanderson with Derek, as well as with her children. A New York Yankees fan himself, Derek Jeter would likely never have made it to MLB without the steadfast dedication of his father to his future baseball endeavors.

Sanderson met Derek's mother, Dorothy, while both were serving in the US Military overseas in Germany. A PhD holder, Sanderson played shortstop himself at Fisk University, inspiring his son's love for the position.

A stern but loving father, Sanderson would often make young Jeter sign contracts that set out proper codes of behavioral conduct. Jeter would later credit this approach as instilling discipline and morals in him from a young age.

"Special to be able to bring my Dad to Rickwood to honor the history of the Negro Leagues and those that came before us!" - Derek Jeter

Although Jeter was selected by the Yankees in the 1992 MLB Amateur draft, Sanderson encouraged his son to finish college, but Jeter later withdrew for a chance to play with the Yankees.

Derek Jeter seeks to emulate his father with his own kids

Now the father of three girls, the younger Jeter is getting the chance to experience the joys of fatherhood firsthand. As the retired star told PEOPLE in 2023:

"It's school pick-ups, drop-offs, they do my nails, my toenails, makeup, lipstick. It's the greatest thing I've ever experienced though, my girls. They are the absolute best."

Although his girls are not currently embarking on a baseball career, Jeter's father likely gave him some important insights into fatherhood.