The Reverend Doctor Raymond Douglas Saunders, age 92, of Freeport, IL, who lived and died by the providence of God, passed away on Thursday, August 10, 2017. He was born November 9, 1924 in Chelmsford, MA to the late John and Janet (Peverill) Saunders. Raymond married Helen Gentry on August 23, 1950 in Tennessee.
After high school, Raymond attended Maryville College, Maryville, TN, where he received his bachelor's degree, interrupting his studies to serve for three years in the United State Army. He went on to McCormick Theological Seminary, Chicago, where he received his masters and doctoral degrees. Raymond was a Presbyterian Minister in North Dakota, Chicago, South Dakota and Tennessee. In addition to serving the community through his ministry, Raymond enjoyed bird-watching, hiking, reading, teaching, storytelling, and spending time with his family.
Raymond is survived by his wife, Helen Saunders of Freeport; his three daughters, Joyce (Mike) Wymer of Rock City, Judith (Pete) Deszcz of Chicago, and Bonnie Rae (Brian) Letton of Pecatonica; his grandchildren, Jason Rupnow (Kenalee McPeek), Tim (Katie) Rupnow, Sarah (Joel) Boettner, Ted (Kara) Rupnow, Todd Rupnow, Angie (Scott) Wech-Gussick, Linsey Wymer, Tim (Tammy) Wymer, Ed Deszcz, André Deszcz, Grace Letton, Wai-Yee Letton, Jayson Letton, Tiffany Letton and Bret Letton; 15 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Janet, and his three siblings, Pearl Schuler, Arnold Saunders and Mary Leonard.
There will be a memorial service at United Presbyterian Church in Freeport on Wednesday, August 16, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. with a luncheon to follow. A Visitation will precede the service, beginning at 1:00 p.m. A memorial fund has been established in Raymond's name. Condolences may be shared with his family at www.walkermortuary.com.