Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
John DeLaney Saunders, III
John DeLaney Saunders, III
Obituary
Guest Book
John DeLaney Saunders, III Obituary
John Delaney Saunders, III was born at Mather AFB, California on March 26, 1953; to John Delaney Saunders Jr. and Vivian (Strickland) Saunders. He passed away peacefully on Tuesday April 1, 2025, in Cleburne, TX surrounded by family and friends.
John's early childhood allowed him to travel extensively with his family since his father was active-duty Air Force; and they later settled in Altadena, California. He has five siblings, Steven Saunders, Maureen Saunders, Richard Saunders (wife Sheila), Laurette Clash (husband Danny), and Suzanne Saunders.
He attended John Muir High School in Pasadena, California and was a member of the football team and ROTC. John graduated high school in 1971. In May of 1972 John joined the Air Force during the Vietnam war. While in training for his job, he met the love of his life Lola Jeannette (Kirk) Saunders at Chanute AFB in Rantoul, Illinois. In May of 1992 after serving his country for 20 years and 30 days, he retired from the Air Force with the rank of Technical Sergeant. He later graduated from Heald College with a degree in electronics and worked in the telecommunications field. He retired in September of 2016.
John was a devoted husband and father. He was a Christian who served in the church as an usher and was very dedicated to making sure his children were raised in the fear and admonition of the Lord.
John is preceded in death by his parents John and Vivian Saunders and his grandson Jason David Saunders.
He is survived by his wife Lola Jeannette Saunders and their three children.
John D. Saunders, IV, wife Michelle and their four children John V, Derik, Marcus and Tyson.
Jason D. Saunders, I, wife Lillian, ex-wife Casey and their children Jazmine, Jordan, Julieanna, Mikayla, Morgan and (Jocelyn).
Jasmine Doreen Saunders of North Carolina; As well as his siblings and a host of extended family.
John will be missed by all. He was a loving husband and father and reveled in his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
VISITATION
When: April 11, 2025, at 11:00 am to 11:45 am
Location: Mountain Valley Funeral Home
Address: 3407 SW Wilshire Blvd, Joshua TX 76058
SERVICE
Location: Mountain Valley Funeral Home
Address: 3407 SW Wilshire Blvd, Joshua TX 76058
When: April 11, 2025, at 12:00 pm
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
3407 SW Wilshire Blvd., Joshua, TX 76058
People and places connected with John DeLaney
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for John DeLaney Saunders, III
Tell your own story about John DeLaney
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
How you can show support
Make a Donation
in John DeLaney Saunders, III's name
How to support John DeLaney's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor John DeLaney Saunders, III's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
