Louis Franklin Saunders, Jr

Louis Franklin Saunders, Jr.

January 25, 1952 - July 28, 2025.

Louis "Lou" Franklin Saunders, Jr., 73, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, surrounded by loving family, after facing two courageous battles with cancer-first with Hodgkin's lymphoma (2022-2023) and then Glioblastoma (GBM) brain cancer, which he was diagnosed with in November 2024.

Lou was born on January 25, 1952, to the late Louis and Sara Saunders. He was also preceded in death by his dear brother-in-law, Jason Stigletts.

Lou is survived by his wife, Robin Kelly; his beloved children, Louie Saunders (Tracy McBee and their soon-to-arrive son), Maggie Saunders, his stepdaughter Sarah Brown Hurt (Thatcher and their sweet baby, Thatcher Jr.) whom he loved and cherished as his own, and his dear sister Suzanne Stigletts.

Lou grew up in Virginia Beach and has maintained some of his dear childhood friends. He served in the US Army before college at Chowan College (now University) and East Tennessee State University. Lou eventually made his way to Charlottesville, VA. Lou spent much of his career as a photographer and real estate appraiser, but his passions extended far beyond the office. He was a gifted musician who found joy in playing drums and guitar (occasionally dabbling with the Banjo), and he never turned down a round of golf....and one can't forget the tales of surfing adventures! At home, he could often be found-sometimes with a grin, sometimes with a playful grumble-helping tend to the horses and farm life that came along with his daughters' equestrian dreams. He liked to joke that when Robin said she was "looking for a groom," he didn't realize she meant one with a pitchfork.

Lou's quiet strength, sharp wit, and steadfast love for his family will be remembered always. He gave generously of his time and heart, and his presence left an indelible mark on those lucky enough to know him.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, September 27. 2025 from 2-4 p.m. and Lou's home church, Charlottesville First Church of the Nazarene, 3056 Louisa Rd, Keswick, VA 22947 Please join family and friends for a brief service and time of fellowship and music celebrating Lou.

In leiu of flowers consider donations in Lou's honor to Hospice of the Piedmont https://hopva.org , Surfers Healing VB https://www.surfershealingvb.org or your own charity