John DeLaney Saunders, III

John Delaney Saunders, III was born at Mather AFB, California on March 26, 1953; to John Delaney Saunders Jr. and Vivian (Strickland) Saunders. He passed away peacefully on Tuesday April 1, 2025, in Cleburne, TX surrounded by family and friends.

John's early childhood allowed him to travel extensively with his family since his father was active-duty Air Force; and they later settled in Altadena, California. He has five siblings, Steven Saunders, Maureen Saunders, Richard Saunders (wife Sheila), Laurette Clash (husband Danny), and Suzanne Saunders.

He attended John Muir High School in Pasadena, California and was a member of the football team and ROTC. John graduated high school in 1971. In May of 1972 John joined the Air Force during the Vietnam war. While in training for his job, he met the love of his life Lola Jeannette (Kirk) Saunders at Chanute AFB in Rantoul, Illinois. In May of 1992 after serving his country for 20 years and 30 days, he retired from the Air Force with the rank of Technical Sergeant. He later graduated from Heald College with a degree in electronics and worked in the telecommunications field. He retired in September of 2016.

John was a devoted husband and father. He was a Christian who served in the church as an usher and was very dedicated to making sure his children were raised in the fear and admonition of the Lord.

John is preceded in death by his parents John and Vivian Saunders and his grandson Jason David Saunders.

He is survived by his wife Lola Jeannette Saunders and their three children.

John D. Saunders, IV, wife Michelle and their four children John V, Derik, Marcus and Tyson.

Jason D. Saunders, I, wife Lillian, ex-wife Casey and their children Jazmine, Jordan, Julieanna, Mikayla, Morgan and (Jocelyn).

Jasmine Doreen Saunders of North Carolina; As well as his siblings and a host of extended family.

John will be missed by all. He was a loving husband and father and reveled in his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

VISITATION

When: April 11, 2025, at 11:00 am to 11:45 am

Location: Mountain Valley Funeral Home

Address: 3407 SW Wilshire Blvd, Joshua TX 76058

SERVICE

Location: Mountain Valley Funeral Home

Address: 3407 SW Wilshire Blvd, Joshua TX 76058

When: April 11, 2025, at 12:00 pm