Thomas Richard Saunders

Thomas R. Saunders, age 67, of Atlanta, GA, passed away at his home on Thursday, February 20, 2014, after a brief illness. He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald B. and Helen Nuffort Saunders. Tom was a native of Maplewood, N.J., but a resident of Atlanta by choice. Tom was a graduate of Cornell University where he enjoyed singing in the Men's Glee Club. He also did graduate work at Pace University in New York City. After college, Tom served as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Naval Reserve where his service included a tour in Vietnam. Before moving to Atlanta in 1980, Tom worked in banking with Chase Manhattan Bank in NYC. He was an avid ice hockey fan and enjoyed serving as a statistician for the New York Islanders NHL team. In Atlanta, he worked for Fulton Federal Savings and Loan Association, Fiserv, and Capitol Community Management. Tom also worked for many years as an H and R Block senior tax advisor. Among his many interests, Tom enjoyed playing volleyball. He was involved in the formation of the Hotlanta Volleyball Association and served as its treasurer for many years. Tom is survived by his sisters, Judith Saunders Meyer and Mary Saunders Hande; his brother, Douglas J. Saunders; and his partner of 22 years, Peter Melton. He is also survived by eight nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mark United Methodist Church, 781 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta 30308 or to Ruffus Rescue (dog rescue) at P.O. Box 29962, Atlanta, GA 30359. Tom was a member of St. Mark United Methodist Church. A memorial service will be held at the church at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 22, 2014, with Pastor Beth LaRocca-Pitts officiating. There will also be a Visitation at the church from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. A.S. Turner and Sons Funeral Home and Crematory.


Funeral Home:
A.S. Turner
2773 N. Decatur Road
Decatur, GA
30033