Jerry M. Saunders

Jerry Saunders grew up in Hudson, NC, in a bustling home with six high-spirited sisters, raised by two loving parents, Rev. Marvin and Verna Saunders. There’s no doubt that his lively childhood shaped him into one of the greatest storytellers, pranksters, gift givers, and encouragers that one would likely ever be fortunate enough to meet. Jerry was one of a kind!

He attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he was a member of the Alpha Kappa Psi fraternity. Jerry enjoyed a successful career full of accomplishments and awards, most notably in sales and management with the Maytag/Whirlpool Corporation.  He retired in 2009 from Electrolux. He loved to travel, and made homes and friends in Knoxville, Chattanooga, Nashville, Macon, Charlotte, Ashe County, and beyond. Salesmen, store owners, business colleagues, and customers would become lifelong friends, with many sharing after Jerry’s passing that he was one of the greatest in the business that they’d ever encountered. Even in retirement, Jerry continued to work as a consultant for Ellis Mears/DDI, traveling, sharing knowledge, and helping “close the deal.”

In the last years of his life, Jerry moved to Mt. Juliet, TN, where he became a member of The Glade Church, continued his pursuit of the perfect golf swing, enjoyed shooting at squirrels, and  told the greatest stories you’d ever heard. His passing leaves a hole in the heart of many who loved him, including countless friends, business associates, and family members.

Preceding him in death, in addition to his parents, are two sisters, Lois Tyler and Carolyn Hampton. He is survived by sisters Deane Sigmon, Shelba Harris, Ava Crouch, and Elaine Wright, adopted brother and sister, Daryl Saunders and Meleah Beaty, and goddaughter, Sarah Singer.

A graveside service will be held at Ashelawn Memorial Gardens in Crumpler, North Carolina on Thursday, August 12 at 3:00 p.m.

Badger Funeral Home in West Jefferson, NC is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.