Doris Lilian Saunders died in her 100th year on August 19, 2024, at Woods Park Care Centre, Barrie. Born on February 26, 1925 in Toronto, to Violet Mabel Blanche Mesley and Walter Edwin William Jones, she was the youngest of six children. Doris was predeceased by her husband Leslie Frederick Cecil Saunders (m. September 7, 1946), son Douglas Lee Saunders and all her brothers and sisters.
Doris and Leslie’s home was loving and welcoming. A gifted artist, singer, actress and member of the Canada Packers Operatic Society, Doris taught her children the merits of music and the pluck to burst into song at any instant. A woman of her times, Doris maintained impeccable manners, dress and poise, whether she was landscaping a garden, family camping, refinishing furniture or tackling home renovations. Tirelessly, she volunteered in her community, fundraising for underprivileged families and neighbourhood projects, serving on the PTA, and as choir mother and head of chancel guild at her church, and much more. Everything was done with flair and style, while running a household and raising six children.
After the children were grown, Doris turned to professional life and taught English as a second language. Voracious and selective in her reading, her library spread beyond the shelves and could be found on tables, under furniture, and in neat piles in hidden places.
A married couple of deep faith, Doris and Leslie were founding members of St. Margaret of Scotland Anglican Church, starting when it was in a storefront. While escaping winter, in later years she joined St. Thomas Episcopal Church in San Antonio and quickly found her place in the front pew. As she had at St. Margaret’s, she soon immersed herself in bible study and discussion groups and formed many friendships. Doris was a lifelong lay associate of the Sisterhood of St. John the Divine. She was loved by her many friends inside and outside the church.
Doris is also deeply loved by her family, who miss her. She is survived by Dennis (Sylvie), Dale (Dorothy), Patti (Bob), Lesley (Steff) and Ali (Bradley). Doris is also survived by ten grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren. She loved being “Aunty Do” to her many nieces and nephews and their children.
The family wishes to thank Royalty Care Inc. and the staff at Woods Park for their wonderful care, kindness and support.
Visitation will take place at St. Margaret of Scotland Church, 161 Hanmer St. W., Barrie, on Tuesday August 27th, 2024 from noon until 1:30 pm. A funeral service with communion will start at 1:30 and be followed immediately with refreshments. Guests are invited to join the family in sharing of memories and stories at or around 3:30 pm. If desired, donations may be made to St. Margaret of Scotland Church, 161 Hanmer St W, Barrie., and are greatly appreciated by the family. Interment will occur on Thursday August 29, 2024 at the St. Philip’s On-The-Hill Cemetery, Unionville. A link for livestream of the service will be made available shortly.
Online memories and condolences may be forwarded via www.steckleygooderham.com.