Stephen Robert Saunders

Stephen Robert "Steve" Saunders, 76, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026. He was born on August 23, 1949, in Portsmouth, NH, to Janet (Merrill) and Robert Saunders of North Conway, NH.

Steve grew up in Portsmouth NH and moved to Manchester in his high school years. He attended Manchester Central High School, where he excelled in athletics and enjoyed successful seasons in baseball, basketball, and football. He was also an outstanding catcher for the American Legion baseball teams of the mid 60's. His love of sports remained
throughout his life. He especially enjoyed playing golf, following his favorite teams, reading, and discussing sports statistics with family and friends.
Steve spent much of his adult life living in Plant City, Florida, where he made his home for many years. While living there, he had a long career in automobile sales and built many friendships along the way.

He is survived by his three daughters: Shelley Saunders and her daughters, Lyla Saunders and Daphne Harrington; Becky Saunders, her fiancé Jason Lowe, and her daughter, Thea Byers; and Kristen French, her husband Brian French, and their children Arianna, Isabella, and Landon French.

He is also survived by his sisters, Gail Honey and Joan McGuirk and her husband, Peter McGuirk. In recent years, Steve especially enjoyed talking sports with his nephew, Jared Saunders, with whom he shared a close bond. He is also survived by many other cousins, nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly.

Steve was predeceased by his parents; his brother and best friend, Michael Saunders; his nephew, Casey Saunders; and his brother-in-law, Neale Honey.

A celebration of Steve's life will be held at a later date. He will be remembered for his love of sports, his conversations, and the role he played in the lives of those who knew him.