William Preston Saunders

William Preston Saunders, 69, of Amherst, VA, died Friday, June 18, 2010 at his home. He was the loving husband of Becky Gibbs-Saunders.

Born in South Boston, VA on January 31, 1941, he was the son of the late Thomas J. and Grace E. Saunders. He was raised in Brookneal and attended William Campbell High School, Fork Union Military Academy, and the Central Virginia School of Nursing. He served his country with honor in the U.S. Army Special Forces from 1963 – 1967 in the Signal Company 5th SFGA, 1st SF and served in Vietnam from February 1967 – December 1967. Mr. Saunders coached Rustburg Dixie Youth Baseball, was a retired nurse for Centra Health and served on the patient Advocate Board of the Central Virginia Training Center.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his two sons, William P. Saunders, Jr. and Charles E. Saunders.

In addition to his wife, he is survived three sons, Kevin Saunders, Jeffrey Saunders (Wanda), and Matthew Saunders (Kate); two stepsons, Joshua Gibbs and Seth Gibbs; grandchildren, Mike Williams (Candace), Kodi Ladroga, Brandon, Jacob, and Michael Saunders, Isaiah and Mackenzie Saunders; two brothers, Barry E. Saunders (BJ), and Thomas L. Saunders (Reta); three sisters, Sylvia Compton (Beverly), Jane S. Beale (Ronnie), and Sue S. Wright (Ronald W.); his special companion and friend, Buddy, as well as many nieces, nephews, and special friends.

A celebration of Mr. Saunders' life will be held at 7:00 p.m., Monday, June 21, 2010 at Whitten Monelison Chapel in Madison Heights. Following the service, the family will receive friends until 8:30 p.m.

Visitors are welcome at the family home in Amherst. The family's mailing address is P.O. Box 136, Sweet Briar, VA, 24595.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes memorial contributions be made to Gentle Shepherd Hospice, 6056 Peters Creek Road, Roanoke, VA 24019.

To send a condolence to the family, please visit www.whittenfuneralhome.com.

Whitten Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Monelison Chapel is serving the family.