FRANKLIN—Bishop William Edward Saunders Sr., 61, of the 3100 block of Beaverdam Road, died Nov. 15, 2007, in Prince George County in an automobile accident.

Bishop Saunders was a native of Newport News.

He was employed with New Life Ministries for 24 years. He was senior pastor of New Life Church in Franklin.

He was bishop over churches in New York, Virginia, Ohio and Maryland. He traveled the world speaking the gospel.

Survivors include his devoted wife, Sherry Saunders; father, Richard Saunders Sr. (Laura) and mother, Mattie Redcross (Junius); son, William E. Saunders Jr. (Stefanie); Faith Bridges (Zachary) and Carol Phillips (Rollin); brothers, Richard Saunders Jr. and Milton Saunders; sisters, Margaret Blackwell, Brenda Kimbrew, Linda Charity and Annette Saunders;

and five grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Herbert Saunders.

Funeral services was held Tuesday at Apostolic Faith Church of God with the Rev. Robin Ricks officiating. Burial followed in Southview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family would like donations made to the New Life Church, Franklin, Building Fund.

Elvin Vaughan Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.