FRANKLIN – Richard M. Saunders, 89, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, August 28, 2013.

Richard, a life-long resident of Franklin, retired from the City of Franklin. He worked as a custodial worker. In earlier years, he was employed at Ft. Eustis as a cook. He was once a member of the Gospel singing quartet group, The Gospel Chorus. Their name was later changed to The Gospel Stirrers. He was a faithful member of New Life Church in Franklin, where he served as a Deacon, a member of the New Beginnings Senior Ministry and a Church Father. Richard was preceded in death by two sons, Herbert Saunders and William Saunders, Sr. and a brother, James Saunders. Survivors include his wife of 32 years, Laura M. Saunders of Franklin; four daughters, Margaret Blackwell of Suffolk, Brenda Kimbrew (Thomas) of NY, Linda Charity (Nelson) of Newport News, and Annette Saunders of Hampton; three stepdaughters, Barbara Warren, Rena Lane, and Eulinda Parker all of Franklin; two sons, Richard Saunders, Jr. of Hampton and Milton Saunders (Joyce) of Newport News; 21 grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren, one great great-grandchild and a host of other relatives and friends.

A celebration of his life will be held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, September 4th at Scott’s Revival Church, 1816 South Street, Franklin, VA. Burial will follow at Southview Cemetery. Elvin Vaughan Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.