Donald Ray Saunders, Sr., a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at his residence on November 29, 2024, surrounded by family. He was 80 years old. Born on December 16, 1943, in Elizabeth City, NC, he spent a lifetime committed to his family and work. Donald was self-employed as a machinist at First Flight Machine Corporation.

Donald is preceded in death by his parents, Melvin Leroy Saunders and Eliza Cooper Beacham; his beloved infant son, Mark Daniel Saunders; his sister, Alice Jean Lamb; and his brother-in-law, Maxie Lamb.

He leaves behind his cherished wife, Rita Colson Saunders; his sons, Donald "Donnie" Ray Saunders, Jr. and his wife Theresa, and Aaron Daniel Saunders and his wife Charlotte. He will be deeply missed by his brother, Mercer Leroy Saunders and his wife Ida. Donald's legacy continues through his grandchildren; Rhonda Michelle Ownley and her fiancé Robbie, Amanda Lynn Green and her husband Jeremy, Cody Ray Saunders and his wife Olivia, Mark Daniel Saunders and his wife Breanna, and Sean Wyatt Saunders. He was also the proud great-grandfather to eight great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

The memory of Donald Ray Saunders, Sr. will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at Twiford Memorial Chapel, with Chaplain Scott Shanks officiating. A private burial will take place at the family cemetery. The family will receive friends and relatives immediately following the service in the chapel lobby. Donald’s service will be live streamed on his obituary page at www.TwifordFH.com.

Twiford Funeral Homes, 405 E. Church Street, Elizabeth City, NC is assisting the Saunders Family. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.