Robert Lee Saunders

Robert Lee Saunders, 78, passed away on Tuesday August 29, 2023, at Annie Penn Hospital.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00am on Friday, September 1, 2023, at Concord Christian Church with Pastor Steve Hilton officiating. The family will receive friends at Wilkerson Funeral Home on Thursday evening from 5:00-7:00PM and other times at the home.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Barbara P. Saunders; daughter, Tracey Saunders and buddy, Greg Moyer; sons, Kristopher Saunders and wife Carrie, Mike Strader and partner Cody Neshteruk, Mitchell Strader and wife Rena; grandchildren, Jocelyn Saunders, Nathaniel Lee Saunders, Ryan Rasberry and Hayley Strader; great-grandchild, Paylei Hopkins; brother, Homer Saunders and wife Sylvia; nephew, Jody Saunders and wife Tracy; niece, Jennifer Connor and husband John;  and great-nephew, Jackson Saunders.

Robert was born on August 31, 1944, to the late George and Frances Saunders in Danville, Virginia. He graduated from Anderson High School, later worked at Copland Fabrics in Burlington for 43 years and was also a tobacco farmer. Robert enjoyed being outside, hunting, watching sports, fishing,  and appreciating the quietness of nature. He was an avid dog lover and enjoyed running his hunt’n dogs. Anyone who knew him knew of his night-time love of ice cream, chewing tobacco, and telling tall tales.

He adored and loved his grandchildren and enjoyed instigating the grandchildren to ride fearlessly on the four-wheeler. More than anything he loved people and enjoyed being surrounded by his family as often as celebrations would allow, especially at Christmas, his favorite holiday.  Robert will be remembered for many things, including his witty sense of humor, kindness, and humble way of life.