Obituary of Darryl Ernest Saunders

Darryl, 55, went to be with the Lord Tuesday, March 15, 2016 after a courageous battle with cancer. Darryl was a devoted public servant for over 30 years in the Bedford community which he lovingly called home as both a paramedic and a deputy sheriff. Most recently as Lieutenant of the Criminal Investigations Unit. He spent all his years in this world serving and protecting others and placing them before him. Darryl was a devoted servant of the Lord, his family, and friends. Darryl was also a devout and loyal Freemason and previously served as his district’s Deputy Grand Master. As a Freemason, Darryl was very involved and dedicated to many districts’ chapters of the Eastern Star. Darryl’s other loves included everything involving his children and all things Virginia Tech. It was always noted by those that knew him best, that his smile and personality were infectious. Darryl is preceded in death by his father, Richard Ernest Saunders. Darryl is survived by his two children, Christopher Ernest Saunders and Kayla Saunders Trevillian and her husband Michael. He is also survived by the mother of his children, Terri Faw. Other survivors include sister, Trista Farrell, her husband William, and their children Bruce and Elyse; sister, Freda Saunders; brother, Kevin Saunders; mother, Gertrude Saunders; and numerous other family members and friends. A Funeral service will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, March 19, 2016 at Thaxton Baptist Church with burial to follow. The family will receive visitors between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM Friday, March 18, 2016, also at Thaxton Baptist Church, 1067 Penicks Mill Road, Thaxton, VA 24174. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Masonic Home of Virginia,4101 Nine Mile Rd, Richmond, VA 23223. Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.