Robert Lee Saunders Jr.'s Obituary
Robert was born at home in Rockfish, Virginia on March 26, 1940. He passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his daughters and granddaughter on January 15, 2026.
He grew up in Alexandria, Virginia and moved his family to Fredericksburg, Virginia in October 1987. He started roofing when he was 16 and opened his own company in 1972. He developed heart disease as the early age of 32 and was forced to dissolve Saunders Roofing in 1992.
Robert lived a long and fulfilling life filled with great adventures and a wonderful sense of humor. He loved his family and one of his favorite things to do was caring for and sharing his love of animals and nature with his grandchildren.
He enjoyed gardening, designing and building water gardens, constructing beautiful things including two homes, spending time on his property and traveling, especially to South Carolina, Florida and other warm climates.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 55 years, Sandra J. Saunders; his parents, Robert L. Saunders Sr. & Elizabeth Ramsey Saunders; and his brother, Carroll W. Saunders.
Robert was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and uncle. He is survived by his daughters, Robin L. Saunders (Earl Wildt), Christine M. Kuney and Dawn E. Buerke (Chris); he was a doting grandfather of Kaitlynn (Wolfgang) and Cody (Jessica) Saunders, Rachel (Hunter) and Rebecca Kuney and Hyla Wildt; a beloved great grandfather of two great granddaughters he cherished; his sister-in-law, Linda Gaydick (Gus); brother-in-law, Robert Huber (Tim); niece, Desta V. Wilson; and great niece, Shelby Militzer.
Service and burial will be private.
What’s your fondest memory of Robert?
What’s a lesson you learned from Robert?
Share a story where Robert's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Robert you’ll never forget.
How did Robert make you smile?