James "Red" Wade Saunders

James Wade Saunders, 78, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 19, 2024. 

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at Wilkerson Funeral Home with Rev. Heath Lloyd officiating. The family will receive friends Friday, August 23, 2024, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the funeral home and other times at the home.

Red was born in DeLand Florida to the late George Norman Saunders and Fanny Burr Jackson. As a young adult Red enlisted and served as a hull technician in the U.S. Navy. He also worked and retired from American Tobacco Company. Red was a man of many interests and talents. He loved all things baseball, including coaching many teams throughout the years. He found a passion for woodturning later in life and created unique pieces of art for many years. He became well known for his beautiful woodturning and especially loved attending and showcasing his art at shows. Red loved the Lord, he attended and was a member of Fairview Baptist Church for over 15 years. 

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by brothers, Ray Saunders and Clyde Saunders.

He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Valorie Saunders; Son, Greg Saunders and wife Carla; Daughter, Amanda Saunders Rebb and husband Darrell; Son in-law Brent Schweizer and Carley Bailey; Daughter In-law Suzanne Frost and husband Jason; Grandchildren, Olivia, Lanie, Jay, Eve and husband Tyler, Cade, Ansley, Hayes; Great Grandson, Pearson; Nephew, Tim Saunders and wife Kathy; as well as a loving group of extended family and friends. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Fairview Baptist Church 2531 Flat Rock Road, Reidsville, NC 27320.