Alfred Burns Saunders

Alfred Burns Saunders (“PaPa”), age 95 of Troy, passed away on Friday, April 21, 2023 at Atrium Health in Albemarle with his family by his side.
 
Alfred was born in Montgomery County on March 17, 1928 to the late Herman Saunders and Myrtle Burns Saunders. He was the valedictorian of the 1947 graduating class of Troy High School and attended UNC Chapel Hill for a time before he returned home to start his own construction business.  Alfred worked as a local contractor for over 60 years, building countless homes for many local families as well as an impeccable reputation as a craftsman and a man of integrity.  

He enjoyed horseback riding and listening to live music and dancing.  He loved Tarheel Basketball and Atlanta Braves Baseball and was able to attend games of both teams with his family in recent years. He also enjoyed annual beach trips to Topsail Island where he made many fond memories with his family.

Alfred was a member of Ophir Methodist Church. He credited his mother for instilling in him a quiet but strong sense of faith and community which he passed on to his descendants.  
 
Alfred is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Delores Auman Saunders; daughter: Gail S. Davenport (Richard) of Troy; sons: Neil Saunders of Troy and Phillip Saunders (Debbie) of Troy; daughter: Vickie S. Maness of Troy; grandchildren: Chris Davenport (Cindy), David Davenport (Danelle), Michael Davenport (Renee), Kevin Saunders (Erica), Pam Fellows (Rajan), Jessica Parsons (Kevin), Ryan Saunders (Lynsay), and Nicole Maness; as well as nineteen great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son Ken Saunders and brother Tommy Saunders.

The family is grateful for the love and support provided throughout the years by special family friends, Laura Bowers and Drew Harkins.
 
A Memorial service will be held on Wednesday, April 26, 2023 at 2:00 PM at Ophir Methodist Church, 2020 Ophir Rd., Troy, NC with Rev. Doug Hefner officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the church. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
 
Memorials may be made in his honor to Ophir Methodist Church, 1315 Ophir Rd., Troy, NC 27371.
  
Pugh Funeral Home is serving the family of Alfred Saunders.