William O. Saunders was born at Alfred Station, N. Y., August 27, 1858 and died after a long illness at his home in Richburg, N. Y., on May 13, 1924, having reached the age of 65 years, 8 months, and 16 days.
Mr. Saunders was united in marriage to Miss Wealthy Crandall on January 1, 1879. To this union were born eight children - two boys - Charlie and Floyd, both of Richburg, also six girls - Mrs. Lelia Pierce of Alfred Station, Mrs. Grace Cowles of Richburg, Mrs. Susie Drake of Shinglehouse, Pa., Mrs. Faith Saunders of Richburg, and Miss Leona Saunders, who is still at home.
Mr. Saunders United with the Seventh Day Baptist Church when about eleven years of age and found great joy in service, both in the church and in the community. He served as trustee of the church for more than twenty years. Mr. Saunders has been an invalid for a number of years, suffering from diabetes and gangrene poisoning, which finally caused his death. He was a most patient sufferer, always cheerful, and interested in the welfare of his family and others before himself. He was a firm believer in the guidance and goodness of God and held firmly to his faith to the end.
He leaves to mourn their loss besides his wife and eight children, sixteen grandchildren, one sister, Mrs. Prudence Miller of Alfred, N. Y., and one brother, Mr. George Saunders, Sr., of Richburg, also other relatives and a host of friends. Mr. Saunders was a loving considerate father, a good husband, a public spirited citizen, a dependable church member, a friend to every man, woman and child he met. The entire community mourns his going and will miss his cheery face.
Farewell services were held on May 16, at his home, in charge of Pastor G. D. Hargis assisted by Rev. Mr. Anderson, pastor of the First Day Baptist Church of Richburg. Interment in Richburg cemetery.
