John Franklin Saunders

John Franklin Saunders, 77, of 1290 Chumney Loop, entered into eternal rest with his Savior, Jesus Christ Sunday evening, February 5, 2012, at peace in his home after enduring a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease. A funeral service will be held at 2 PM on Wednesday, February 8, at Draper Christian Church. Burial will follow in Danview Cemetery. A native of Rockingham County, Mr. Saunders was born February 23, 1934, son of the late John Early and Bettie Bowers Saunders. Surviving are his wife, Mildred Neal Saunders of Eden; daughters, Brenda Chilton and Janet Gardner and husband, William, of Eden; son, John Rogers Saunders of Wilmington; four grandchildren, Ian Williams and wife, Samantha, Janland Roberts, Katie Chilton and Kevin Chilton; five great-grandchildren, Lyndzey Minter, LeiAnnah Minter, Saijel Williams, Sydnie Williams, and John "Landon" Roberts; sisters, Ruth Rumbley, Betsy Wray and husband, J.C. and Mamie Hairfield; brother, Bobby Saunders and wife, Neva; and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his great-granddaughter, Layla Williams; and sister, Marcelle Light.

The family will receive friends Tuesday evening, 7 - 9 PM at Fair Funeral Home and other times at 1290 Chumney Loop Road in Eden.

If memorial contributions are made, the family respectfully requests they be made to Draper Christian Church, 1116 Fieldcrest Road, Eden, NC 27288.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.fairfuneralhome.com