Martha Saunders

Martha Jane Saunders a lifelong resident of Old Mines, Missouri, was born on December 8, 1934, in Old Mines, a daughter of the late Charles Sansoucie and Bridgett (Kerr) Sansoucie. Martha passed away on Sunday, August 20, 2023 at Washington County Memorial Hospital at the age of 88.

On February 6, 1960, Martha was united in marriage to Paul Saunders in Richwoods, Missouri and they shared 54 years together. Paul preceded her in death on October 28, 2014. In addition to Martha’s parents and husband, she was also preceded in death by five brothers: Virgil, Leo, Earl, Calvin, and Charles Sansoucie; eight sisters: Iona Boyer, Dorothy Mickie, Agnus Wagstaff, Bernice Holsteen, Evelyn Schuter, Grace Wilkinson, Maggie Wideman, Edna Brown; great grandson, Christian Cotter; and many other dear relatives.

Those who remain to treasure her memory include her five children: Paul (Sandy) Saunders, Christina (Rick) Willman, Jennifer Pashia, Joseph (Melissa) Saunders, and Aaron Saunders; twelve grandchildren, and twenty-two great grandchildren. Martha also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Martha was a loving and compassionate person and would help anyone within her ability. She had a caring heart as she took care of many residents at Georgian Gardens Nursing Home for nearly twenty-six years until her retirement. Martha was a hard worker and never gave up. Martha was a fabulous cook and was most known for her wonderful breakfast and dinner’s that she’d make for her family. She enjoyed being outdoors, bird watching, and playing cards especially Rummy. She was a wonderful mom and grandma. Her family will remember the love she had for them and her beautiful smile.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 23, 2023 from 4:30 to 8 PM at DeClue Funeral Home. Visitation will resume on Thursday, August 24, from 8:30 to 10 AM at the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow on Thursday beginning at 10:30 AM held at St. Joachim Catholic Church, Old Mines, Missouri. Interment and final prayers will be held at St. Joachim Cemetery beside Paul.

Funeral arrangements were respectfully entrusted to the care and direction of DeClue Funeral Home