Terry Haywood Saunders

Terry Haywood Saunders, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully at his home in Manteo, NC, on December 4, 2025, at the age of 70. Born on January 12, 1955, Terry was a long-time resident of Wanchese and Manteo, where he spent his life dedicated to his family and his passion for the water.
Terry was the captain of multiple boats and a devoted Commercial Fisherman. His love for fishing was not just a profession but a calling that brought him joy. He cherished every moment spent on the water and loved passing on his skills to the younger generation who worked alongside him.
Terry was full of life and kept his family and everyone that he knew laughing. He would give to anyone in need and always wanted to make sure everyone was taken care of. Terry was a man who wore many hats, he could fix anything that come his way.
He was a wonderful husband to his wife for fifty-one years, Tanga D. Saunders, who survives him. Terry is also survived by his daughter, Tara L. Gray (Jeff) of Ridge Spring, SC, and his son, Toby Saunders of Winston Salem, NC. He leaves behind cherished grandchildren, Madison Dickeson (Allan), Jeffrey Gray, and one precious great-granddaughter, Sadie Rose Gray. His sisters, Nicky Ballance (Terry), Buggie Saunders, Simona Saunders, and Margaret Stinnett (Richard), along with his sister-in-law, Merichris Saunders, also survive him. Terry also leaves behind his mother-in-law, Jean Daniels, and several nieces and nephews that he loved very much.
Terry is preceded in death by his parents, Willie Gus Saunders, Jr. and Avis Midgett Saunders, and his brother, Gaston Saunders. His father-in-law, Elmo "Popeye" Daniels, and his brothers-in-law; Brock Daniels and Walter Daniels.
A memorial service to honor Terry's life will be held at Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks Chapel, on Monday, December 8, 2025, at 11:00 am. A private burial will follow in Tillett Cemetery, Wanchese, NC.
Terry's legacy of love for the water and dedication to his family will be remembered by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Terry Haywood Saunders, please visit our floral store.