Phyllis Saunders

Phyllis Octavia Saunders, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully departed this life on Monday, December 23, 2024, at Centra Lynchburg General Hospital. 

Born on July 3, 1946, in Cumberland County, VA, Phyllis was the cherished daughter of the late Lawrence Johnson Sr. and Mamie Foster Johnson. She was baptized at an early age at Old Green Creek Baptist Church, where she served diligently on the Usher Board. Later, she became a dedicated member of Midway Baptist Church, contributing her voice to the choir for many years. 

On March 21, 1965, Phyllis married the late Robert Saunders Sr., and together they welcomed two wonderful children into their lives. Throughout her career, she worked as a factory employee at Stackpole Component Company until her health began to decline. Following this, she devoted herself to caring for her family, including her mother, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many others in her community. Known affectionately as “Ma Phyllis,” she was the heart and anchor of her family, providing love and support to all who knew her. 

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Audrey Green & Janice Johnson; one brother, Lorenzo Johnson and her beloved sister-in-law, Jean Johnson. 

She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories through her two children, Kim Witcher (Alvin) and Robert Saunders Jr. (Demetria), three grandchildren, Brandon Saunders, Ajah Bolden, and Kajah Smith; one bonus daughter, Claudia Stokes (Nathaniel), and one bonus son, Keith Gilliam (Priscilla); one brother, Lawrence Johnson Jr.; and six sisters, Margaret Davis, Ivry Green, Marian Johnson, Diana Dove, Sharon Gilliam, and Stacy Stokes. Additionally, she is remembered by her uncle, John Foster; aunt, Jeanetta Johnson; God-Son, Kevin Copeland; God-Daughters, Doris Trent and Chantel Frazier; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

Phyllis Octavia Saunders will be deeply missed, but her spirit and the love she shared will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.

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