John Vaden Saunders

John Vaden Saunders, of Dillwyn, Va., passed away on Wednesday, December 30, 2009, at Southside Community Hospital in Farmville, Va. He was born May 9, 1928, in Roanoke, Va. Preceding him in death were his parents, William Irby Saunders and Mary Reba Garst; his brother, Robert Saunders and wife, Rheba; and brother, James Saunders. Surviving are his devoted wife of 39 years, Barbara Jean Moore Saunders; five sons, Jackie W. Saunders and wife, Kathryn, of Estmont, Neal P. Saunders and wife, Rita, of Farmville, Mark P. Saunders, of Dillwyn, Richard W. Saunders and wife, Pamela, of Dillwyn, Michael L. Saunders and wife, Wendie, of Dillwyn; 11 grandchildren; three stepgrandchildren; two greatgrandchildren; and three stepgreatgrandchildren; a brother, William Saunders and wife, Charlotte, of Niceville, Fla.; a sister, Mary Saunders Beasley, of Richmond; many nieces and nephews; a sister-in-law, Jean Martin Saunders, of Roanoke; and a beloved cat, his "girl", Abby. John was a veteran of WWII, serving in the United States Army. He was employed by the Federal Aviation Administration, as an air traffic controller, for over 20 years, retiring in 1979. John had a personal relationship with the Lord. Even though Alzheimer's disease stole much of his memory, he talked about Jesus often and would sing parts of hymns that he loved so much. John loved the outdoors and was seldom idle. He enjoyed hunting and being in the mountains. He spent a lot of time in the garden and enjoyed watching the birds. The family spent many happy times on vacation to the beach. The family would like to thank the team of doctors and staff of the second and third floors responsible for his care at Southside Community Hospital. A special thank you to Kristi Woods of Hospice of the Hills. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in the memory of John to the Alzheimer's Association, Blue Ridge of Va. Chapter, 2728 Colonial Ave., Roanoke, Va. 24015 or the American Cancer Society. The family will receive visitors on Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Dunkum Funeral Home, Dillwyn. Funeral service will be held Monday at 11:00 a.m. at Chestnut Grove Baptist Church, Dillwyn. The Rev. Brad Childress and the Rev. Ronnie Rogers will officiate. Visitation will be held at the Lotz Funeral Home, Salem, on Monday from 3 to 5 p.m. A private interment will be held in Sherwood Memorial Park in Salem. Arrangements by the Dunkum Funeral Horne, Dillwyn.