Shirley Jean Saunders

Shirley Jean Saunders
January 27, 1934 – September 15, 2025

Shirley Jean Saunders, a devoted homemaker and beloved mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2025, at the age of 91.

Born on January 27, 1934, in Allegany Co, Maryland to Staten Kidwell and Jeannette Kidwell Thompson, Shirley dedicated her life to caring for her family and creating a warm and loving home. Her quiet strength, kindness, and enduring love touched all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Russell Saunders, and her brother, Staten Kidwell.

Shirley is survived by her son, Michael James Saunders, and her daughter, Melissa Saunders (Jeffery) Perryman. She was a cherished grandmother to Emily Susan Saunders, Alex Michael Saunders, Austin James Saunders, and Cora Elizabeth Perryman.

Shirley was an avid reader of mystery novels, and her initials “ss” are still in the inner corner of many of her favorites at the King Public Library. She was a wonderful cook, and her family's favorite recipe was the Chicago Deep Dish Pizza. She also made Jim's favorite, rice pudding on many occasions. Shirley was artistic, making crafts for the church bazaars and hand wrote many posters for church events. In her later years, she loved working word puzzles.

Shirley’s legacy of love, grace, and dedication to her family will live on in the hearts of those who loved her. She will be deeply missed.

A funeral service will be held on Friday 09/19 at 2pm at Chestnut Grove Church with Pastor Evelyn Lemons officiating, the visitation will be held one hour prior. The burial will follow at the church cemetery.

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