Doris E. Saunders, 99, passed away on January 29, 2025. Born July 2, 1925, Doris lived her
entire life in Newport News. She was a Newport News High School graduate.
Doris loved being a housewife and stayed home to raise their five children. Her love for cooking
and baking began at an early age and blossomed into a successful career with the Newport
News Public School System. She retired after 16 years of service.
A member of North Riverside Baptist Church, she was actively involved in her many church
activities, including preparing meals for church socials, her Church Card Ministry, being a faithful
Prayer Warrior, a devoted church friend to all; and received many, many compliments on her
cooking and baking. She was especially known for her delicious homemade rolls and pound
cakes. The goodies she made cooking and baking were always eagerly anticipated by family
and friends alike.
Doris always loved music, especially hymns praising the Lord. They brought her comfort in her
final 3 years of life.
Doris was preceded in death by her husband, Melvin Hugh Saunders, Sr., her son, Brian Keith
Saunders; her father, Calvin Leslie Edwards, Sr.; her mother, Pearl Apperson Edwards; her
brother, Calvin Leslie Edwards, Jr.; and her sisters, Elizabeth Bever and Mildred Ball. She is
survived by two sons, Melvin Hugh Saunders, Jr. and Calvin Edward Saunders (Saundra); two
daughters, Nancy S. Cowan (Dave) and Ann S. Sage (Russ); four grandchildren, Lee Sage
(Amy), Chris Sage (Jessica), Nathan Sage (Angelique), and Jennifer Saunders; and 9 great-
grandchildren.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 10th at Peninsula Memorial
Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer
Society or a charity of your choice.
The family would like to thank the many caregivers at The Huntington Assisted Living, The
Newport Nursing Home, and VHS Hospice for their care in the final 3 years of Doris’ life. The
family would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to the many friends for their prayers, cards, and
visits.
Funeral arrangements under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home.
2 Comments
I am sending condolences to the Saunders family. My prayers are with them during this difficult time. I remember Ms. Doris for her pound cake. She always blessed my family with her cake on holidays. She was an exceptional baker. We will miss you, Ms. Doris.
Calvin, sorry for your loss. Your mother helded a special place in my heart. I did her hair for many years and she was so sweet,kind and generous. We all will miss her but she is now on another journey and all her pain gone and being with all her love ones who went before her. Her work here is complete. I am thankful for having time with her and knowing her. My love to you and your family.