Zoot is preceded in death by his wife of over 50 years, Emily Saunders.
He is survived by his sons, Wilton McClees “Zoot” Saunders Jr (Kathy) of New Bern, Brian Keith Saunders (Barbara) of New Bern, and Douglas Burnette Saunders (Monica) of Raleigh; his daughter, Teresa Saunders Hayes (Lee) of New Bern, and Dennis West (Becky) of New Bern, as well as his grandchildren Erin, Abigail, Michael, April (Danny), Nathan (Amy), Ashley (Jamie), Brandon, Madelyne-Lois, Brooke (Cameron), and Blake, and 5 great grandchildren.
Zoot Served the city of New Bern faithfully as a Fireman, Fire Inspector, and Training Officer from 1955-1978 when he retired. In 1977 he was named Fireman of the Year by the NC State Fireman’s Association, and was named an honorary member of the Ft. Barnwell Vol. Fire Dept. in 2004 for life. He gave unselfishly of his time and talents to train paid and volunteer fireman throughout the state of NC.
He had a love for dogs, dog shows, as well as golf. He shot his age and bettered his age the last 2 rounds of golf he played and will be missed by his Thursday golfing buddies George Zaytoun and Charlie Jernigan. Among his many hobbies and pastimes, he will also be remembered for his love and talent of magic with which he entertained the lives and hearts of many.
The family will receive friends Sunday, November 29, 2015 from 12:30pm-2:00pm at Cotten Funeral Home and also following the committal service. Funeral service will be held at 2:00pm Sunday, November 29, 2015 at Cotten Funeral Home. Entombment will follow at Greenleaf Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Colonial Capital Humane Society PO Box 326 New Bern, NC 28563, or the Alzheimer’s Association 1305 Navaho Dr. Ste. 101 Raleigh, NC 27609.
He lived life to the fullest and was loved by so very many! We will miss him but will have many stories to share!
Arrangements are by Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory. Online Condolences may be made at www.cottenfuneralhome.com
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