William E. "Bill" Saunders Jr.

Bill was predeceased by his wife, Alma, and his parents, William E. Saunders, Sr. and Louise B. Saunders. He was also predeceased by one sister, Ann Ragland

Bill is survived by three children – William E. Saunders, III, Mark A. Saunders, and Scarlet S. Lipscombe (Carroll). He is also survived by his brother, Benny D. Saunders, Sr., four grandchildren – Megan P. Saunders, Dakota M. Lipscombe, Caleb R. Saunders and William F. Saunders, and a sister-in-law Barbara A. Perry.

Bill was a Korean War Army veteran, and, at different times, served as Vice President of Solite Corporation and Southern Materials Corporation, with complex and significant responsibilities. Even after “retiring” to Brunswick County, Bill continued to support his family and community in many ways, including working with The Coastal Companies in various roles that suited his talents and experience. Bill’s life was characterized by hard work, providing for his family, and his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. He often led church choirs and sang solos, witnessing his belief in the eternal God.

Without question, however, Bill’s greatest calling was to his wife Alma, to whom he was married for 67 years. Despite the extensive daily needs that Alma had for four decades, Bill’s commitment to her never faltered and he never complained, because it was driven by his unfailing love. Shortly after a serious car accident 20 years into their marriage that instigated and resulted in severe physical limitations for Alma, Bill penned these words in a letter addressed to “My Darling Wife”: “Sweetheart, I know now that I love you more than ever before and, if I were to lose you, I do not know what I would do, for no one could ever begin to take your place in my heart.” He wrote much more, and closed with “All my love is yours ‘til death, Billy”. And, so it was, ‘til death, for the next 47 years. A love lived-out in great sacrifice every day. Not one time - despite the sacrifice, despite the strain, despite the seeming unfairness - not one time was a complaint ever heard. Within the context of earthly relationships, his love and dedication to Alma cannot be surpassed, and his life’s commitment to her ended only with her passing just a few months before his.

Bill had many special friends including his brother, and work associates, along with Ricki Sellers, Debbie Hardee, Charity Parsons, Valerie Goad and neighbors who provided care and fun for many years. He will be missed and often remembered.

Visitation will be 10:00 a.m., September 6, at Mt. Pisgah Baptist Church, 494 Mount Pisgah Road, Supply, NC, with a service to immediately follow at 11:00 a.m.

An interment service will be held at 5:00 p.m., September 6, at Laurel Hill Methodist Church, 1919 New Market Road, Richmond, VA.

In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the Mount Pisgah Baptist Church Building Fund.

You may offer online condolences at www.shallottefunerals.com

White Funeral and Cremation Service, Shallotte Chapel