Saundra E. Gaston

Saundra E. Gaston, age 75, of Toms River, NJ, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. She was a devoted wife, a nurturing mother, and a passionate educator who dedicated her life to her family, friends, and career.

Born in St. Petersburg Florida, to Elease F. Brunson and Talmadge O. Brunson Sr., Saundra grew up surrounded by loved ones.

She graduated from Ohio University with a degree in Education, which launched her thirty-eight year career in education. Ohio University was where she met her husband, Matthew.

As a teacher, Saundra was more than just an instructor; she was a mentor, coach and a champion for her students. She believed that every student had potential, and her impact will be felt for generations. Saundra had a love for track and field and worked numerous high school and state meets for forty years. If you ran track; you knew Saundra.

While she took great pride in her career, her greatest love was her family. She shared forty-five years of marriage with her husband, Matthew. Together, they built a life rooted in love and laughter. Above all she was a devoted mother to Matthew and McKenzie. She never missed a game or recital and taught them the importance of being resilient and lifelong learners. To her children, family and friends, her house was a place that always felt like home. Saundra had a rare gift for making anyone who walked through the door feel welcomed and loved.

Saundra is survived by her mother, Elease; her loving husband, Matthew; her children, Matthew and McKenzie; her grandchildren, Ellasyn, Jace and Julius; her siblings Talmadge (Butch), Terral, and Sheron; and a community who will miss her dearly. She was preceded in death by her father, Talmadge O. Brunson, Sr.

A celebration of Saundra’s life will be held on Tuesday, January 20th from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at Anderson & Campbell Funeral Home in Toms River, NJ. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to The Channing's Joy Foundation in honor of her grandson, Jace.