Marguerite T. Saunders

1931 - 2021

Saunders, Marguerite T. ALBANY On March 16, 2021, God realized her work here on earth was done, and called Marguerite T. Saunders quietly home. His Lord said, "Well done, good and faithful servant"-Mathew 25:23 Born on September 3, 1931, she was the daughter of the late George and Rose (Newsome) Augustine. She was one of seven beautiful children, one who was proud of her Haitian descent. Marguerite lived a purposeful life on her own terms. Raised in the Bronx, she early recognized the power of a solid education, and eventually pursued and conquered her master's degree from Fordham University. As a young, vibrant woman, Marguerite had a flair for acting and was able to perform in several local productions. In addition, she was fortunate to know personalities as diverse as Miles Davis, Betty Shabazz, and A. Phillip Randolph. While working with Mr. Randolph, Mrs. Saunders helped with the logistics and participated in the 1963 March on Washington where Dr. King delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech, urging Americans toward a vision in which all would achieve true civil rights. Her true professional calling was in commitment to the prevention, treatment, and recovery of individuals and their families from alcohol and other substance use disorders. She was initially employed by predecessor agencies to the Division of Substance Abuse Services (DSAS) and moved on to become the director of the Division of Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse (DAAA). She served honorably seeking to improve services throughout the state and for all populations in need until her retirement in 1995. She was passionate in her commitment to justice, equality, her faith and she followed politics closely. Marguerite valued knowledge and integrity so it was important to her to share her wisdom, as well as bring you "up to speed." Marguerite was generous of her time and her love; she was always happy to celebrate milestones with her family and friends as her health began to fail, her mind remained sharp, whereas, most would say, you could talk to her about almost anything. Marguerite is resting at peace with her son Gary; and grandson Kevin Jr. Precious memories are left to be cherished by her brother Roger (Delores); her sons, Charles (Crystal), and Kevin (Victoria); grandchildren, Charles, Deidra, and Victoria (Sherlynn - mother); great-grandchildren, Jamillah, Joy, Elli, Taj, Jonathan, Macenzie and Anisa and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 27, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. with a service at 10:30 a.m. at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie. Social distancing practices will be in effect and masks are required in the building. For more information, please see NewComerAlbany.com.