Helen Frances Saunders (Blake) passed away peacefully at Haven Hospice, ET York Care Center on Saturday, October 8, 2016, she was 88 years old. Her daughter, accompanied by her niece Barbara McCabe and her sister Patricia French of Maine, were with her during her last days. She was born March 15, 1928 in Bath, Maine, and married Edward Saunders (Ret M.Sgt. USAF) October 16, 1945. They were married for nearly 60 years, after 28 years active duty, they traveled with their RV’s all over the country.
Their home of 50 years was Panama City, Florida. She is predeceased by Edward who passed away June 1, 2005, her son’s Allen R. Saunders, DVM who passed away February 24, 2016 and Steven R. Saunders who also passed away May 25, 2016. She is survived by her daughter, Gail F. Saunders of Trenton, Florida a Registered Nurse with Malcolm Randall VA Medical Center. Roberta Pomerleau, her sister of Clinton, Maine along with many nieces and nephews and two Grandson’s Todd Allen Saunders, of Tampa, Florida and Alexander Saunders, of Tallahassee, Florida.
She was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s dementia and came to the Gainesville, Florida area in 2011 where she has resided in Assisted Living at HarborChase of Gainesville. She was well liked by all that encountered her for her delightful smile, she was a kind and loving mother despite her failing memory.
Sending love and strength Gail. I know she will be missed.
Prayers that you will find peace after all the turmoil. Your Mom is at rest now. Take your time moving forward, no rush.
Hugs, Ray & Selma
God’s Peace. Becoming an orphan at any age is heart breaking. Our thoughts are with you.
What a beautiful memoir! I know how much she will be missed.
Thank you for sharing.
Gail, you know I loved your Mother. She was a great lady, and I loved spending time with her. Ben and I have had many wonderful times with your Mother, Father, and you. The memories will keep her in my heart. She will be missed. You have been a loving, attentive, caring Daughter. I am proud of you. Stay strong! The Lord will be with you!
Love you, Aunt Maria
Gail, you have been so strong this year. I will always your remember your mom visiting you with her little dog. And, she was always smiling as you said. Now you must be strong for yourself. You will never be alone. I admire you very much. Lots of love and hugs.
Your Mom was so fortunate to have raised such a loving and caring daughter, Gail. I know she felt lucky to have you, because she certainly was. You took the best care possible of your Mom during her last time on earth and no one could have wished for a better, more knowledgable or attentive advocate.
With love and care