Steven Richard Saunders

1946 - 2025

Steven Richard Saunders 78, of Alexandria, VA died on July 5, 2025 from cancer. Steve was born November 11, 1946 in Newark, NJ. He grew up in Elmont, L.I. NY, the son of Lawrence Jay Saunders and Sarah Leinoff Saunders. He graduated from Elmont Memorial High School and Washington and Lee University (1968). He married Maureen Collins in 1977.

Steve loved history and politics, and his career reflected that: History teacher at The Lawrenceville School in NJ, Deputy Supervisor of the Town of Oyster Bay, Legislative Director & Press Secretary to US Rep. N. Lent (NY), Staff Director of the Republican Conference, and Communications Director of the National Republican Senatorial Committee.

One of his favorite jobs was Assistant U.S. Trade Representative. Its focus on Asia would shape the rest of his career. Steve founded Saunders & Co. in 1982, an international business and public policy consulting firm for Pacific Basin countries. At the same time, he opened an art gallery, Perry House Gallery in Alexandria. In 1998, he became President of the U.S.-Mongolia Business Council developing a special relationship with Mongolia's people and their culture. The President of Mongolia awarded Steve the Order of the Polar Star, the highest tribute bestowed on a foreigner. It was Steve's honor to serve the Foreign Ministry of Japan and the Japanese Embassy in Washington, DC for 38 years. His career gave him a life of travel, visiting countries and cultures he fell in love with, especially Japan, China, and Mongolia.

Steve's gift was human connection, making deep friendships all over the world. He had an infectious personality and looked at the bright side, the good in people. He was witty with an excellent sense of humor. He had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, always reading and researching across multiple disciplines, including politics, trade, religion, and history. He was a great admirer of Teddy Roosevelt, a member of the T.R. Association and briefly wore a Park Ranger hat as Ranger-Historian at Roosevelt's home. Steve had a diverse collection of Asian & Native American art and enjoyed sharing the stories of his travels and collections. He never lost the teaching bug, mentoring and teaching as he went along, getting the greatest satisfaction from constantly and quietly helping others. He loved the beach, museums, and being home with Maureen and their children.

Steve was beloved as a wonderful Dad, husband, grandfather, and friend. Steve is survived by his wife of 48 years Maureen Collins Saunders, daughters Keira and Erin, son Burke, granddaughter Mia, his mother-in-law, Naomi Collins, many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Robert Saunders.

The funeral service will be held Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at 1 p.m. at Grace Episcopal Church of Alexandria VA, 3601 Russell Rd., Alexandria, VA 22305. A reception, a Celebration of Steve's Life will be held immediately after the funeral. Details for the Celebration Reception will be provided later.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Steve's name to the American Indian College Fund, a cause Steve long supported. www.collegefund.org