Deacon George M. Saunders, age 93 of Bedford, departed this life on Monday, October 25, 2021. He was born in Bedford, VA on October 16, 1928 to the late Hesikia and Sophia Drew Saunders. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, George E. Saunders; his five sisters, Dorothy (Boyd) Smith, Sadie (Harrison) Preston, Florence (James) Stephens, Gladys Parker and Cozy Saunders; and three brothers, Fred (Alice) Saunders, Cresoda (Bessie) Saunders and Thornton (Janie) Saunders.

Deacon Saunders joined Mt. Olivet Baptist Church at an early age. He was a faithful and devoted member who held many positions in the church such as: Deacon, Superintendent/ Teacher of the Sunday School, Secretary, Janitor and Key Holder. Deacon Saunders would always arrive at the church early to make sure that things were in order for services.

Deacon Saunders was the Founder and Manager of the Spiritual Four Gospel Singers of Leesville, Va. He and his group sung for WKDE Radio in Altavista, VA for over 50 years. The group also traveled to different churches and community functions singing God's praises, which Deacon Saunders thoroughly enjoyed. The only surviving member of the group is Mrs. Minnie Anthony.

Deacon Saunders was employed at Bunker Hill Foods and after many years of service he retired. Later in life, he was employed at Bedford Funeral Home. Deacon Saunders was a kind and loving: Husband, Father and Friend. He would always greet you with a smile and he never spoke an unkind word. He loved to serve the Lord and read his bible. Deacon Saunders will be truly missed by his family, church family and friends.

Those left to cherish his wonderful memories are: his loving wife of 73 years, Deaconess Alcora Garrette Saunders; children, Laurie (Wiley) Hurt, Elvis (Sharese) Saunders and Dorothy Mae Lenora Gulley; A host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews; a loving friend, Lucille Cunningham; other relatives and numerous friends.

We watched you slowly fade away. We tried so hard to make you stay.

And God was watching from above, and took you home to share his love.

~The Family