On Tuesday, August 23, 2016 at 2:41a.m., God called Kenneth R. Saunders, Jr. from this life to his eternal life at a young age of 81 years young. Proceeded in his death was his childhood sweetheart, best friend and companion of thirty-six years, Dolores A. Saunders better known as "Doll".

Kenneth was born on October 10, 1934 to the late Kenneth Saunders Sr. and Anna Lee Johnson both of Youngstown, Ohio. He accepted his Lord and Savior as a young boy and went on to become an All Star football player leading teams to Championships at East High School and then Baldwin Wallace College playing for Jim Trussell Sr., whom he was proud to be coached by. He is a veteran of the United States Army and retired from Atlas Excelsior Marketing Company as one of their lead engineers. He later worked as a probation officer for the United Methodist Center where he found his passion to give back to the youth, not just as an officer, but as a guide to turn their lives around.

Better known as "Kenny," he was a lifetime member of St. Andrewes  A.M.E Church where he served and retired as an Honorary Trustee. He was also a member of the N.A.A.C.P.

He leaves to forever cherish his memory, three daughters, Mrs. Debbie D. Mitchell (Joey) of New Jersey, Miss. Darlene R Saunders of Youngstown, Ohio and Dettra Saunders of Columbus, Ohio. One sister, Elizabeth Penn and one other Joseph Saunders (Gwen) of Youngstown, Ohio. Six grandchildren, Shantel Saunders whom he reared with his wife until her passing in 1989. These two maintained a bond that was special "Her Papa & His Shannie." Three other granddaughters,  Britteny B. Mitchell, Berzette Mitchell and Kendity Lane. Two grandsons, John Lane Jr. and Joey Mitchell Jr. (Mandy) and a host of family and friends.

Also proceeding him in death, two brothers Robert B. Saunders and Harold Saunders.

A FALLEN LIMB

A limb has fallen from the family tree. I keep hearing a voice that says, "Grieve not for me. Remember the best times, the laughter, the song. The good life I lived while I was strong. Continue my heritage, I'm counting on you. Keep smiling and surely the sun will shine through. My mind is at ease, my soul is at rest. Remembering all, how I truly was blessed. Continue traditions, no matter how small. Go on with your lifes, and don't worry about the falls. I will miss you all dearly, so keep up your chins, until the day comes when we're all together again.

Author Unknown