BURLINGTON — Bennie Mason Saunders, 87, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, March 1, 2024 surrounded by family.
He was the youngest of 10 children born in 1936 to the late John Andrew Saunders and Mary Louise Mohorn Saunders in Nash County, NC. He was preceded in death by his wife of 35 years, Patricia Walker Saunders; brothers John Miller, William Gray, Jim Redden, and infant Cecil Boyd; and sisters Mary Louise Journigan, Edna Mae Albinson, Peggy Harris, Jackie Griffin and infant Hattie Bernice.
He is survived by his daughters Pam (Tim) of Mebane and Cheryl (Ian, Lindsay, Nash, Katie, CJ and Everett) of Hampstead special friend Evelyn Ellis of Kenly, his faithful dog, Trigger, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Ben grew up on the family farm in Aventon, NC and graduated from Red Oak High School in 1954. His first job other than the family farm was with Atlantic Coast Line Railroad in Rocky Mount NC. He then worked for a real estate appraisal firm traveling throughout NC. He finally landed at the Department of Housing and Urban Development, where he retired in 1997 after 31 years. He was an active member of Mebane United Methodist Church, where he sang in the choir and attended the Upper Room Sunday School Class. He served on the Missions Committee, Sandwich Ministry and was a member of the Methodist Men. He was a member of the National Association of Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) where he served as County Chapter President, Vice President and Service Officer. He was also a member of the Yaarab Shriners while living in Decatur GA and a current member of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR).
Ben loved his family and his dogs, He loved sitting outside watching the birds, squirrels, and deer. Which he fed every day. That gave him so much enjoyment. He loved history, especially the Civil War and WWII. He was an avid reader. But more than anything he enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.
A graveside service to celebrate his life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at Rocky Mount Memorial Park by Reverend Johnnie Wright. The family will receive friends from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, March 8, 2024 at Lowe Funeral Home in Burlington.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mebane United Methodist Church; 200 S 4th St, Mebane, NC 27302. You may send condolences to www.lowefuneralhome.com.
