James Robert Saunders, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025, in Williamsburg, VA.
Jim, known for his dedication to family and community, graduated from New Canaan High School in 1962, where he excelled in football, basketball, and baseball, earning letters in all three sports. His athletic prowess was further demonstrated when he played in the Nutmeg Bowl the same year. He continued his education at Mt. St. Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, MD, graduating in 1966. While there, he was a proud member of the varsity baseball team.
In 1967, Jim married his high school sweetheart, Lynne Johannessen. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising three children whom Jim coached in youth baseball, soccer, and basketball. His commitment to community service was evident through his roles on the Planning Board and Recreation Committee in Stewartsville, NJ. At St. Mary’s Church in Alpha, NJ, he served as a Lector, Eucharistic Minister, and was an active member of St. Vincent de Paul.
Professionally, Jim was a successful packaging salesman before founding his own company, Princeton Paper and Packaging. His entrepreneurial spirit and integrity earned him the respect of colleagues and clients alike.
A man of varied interests, Jim had a lifelong passion for sports, enjoying softball, golf, skiing, and hiking. He and Lynne shared a love for travel, with cherished trips to Hawaii, Alaska, San Diego, and Mexico. Music was another of his great joys, especially the tunes of Bob Dylan, the Beach Boys, Led Zeppelin, and the Rolling Stones.
In 2008, Jim and Lynne retired to Williamsburg. His warm and enthusiastic personality lifted the spirits of many visitors leading tours and tastings at the Williamsburg Winery.
Jim was a devoted member of St. Bede Catholic Church, where his faith remained a guiding force throughout his life. He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Priscilla Saunders; brother, Bill Saunders; and granddaughter, Jamie Lynne Knotts.
He leaves behind his cherished wife of 58 years, Lynne Saunders; sons, James (Elizabeth) Saunders and Andrew (Erin) Saunders; daughter, Kelly (Kurt) Knotts; brother, Robert (Robin) Saunders; sister, Priscilla (Dave) Shepherd; and grandchildren, Bridget Saunders, James Saunders, Braeden Knotts, Dana Knotts, Taylor Saunders, and Riley Saunders.
A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at noon at St. Bede Catholic Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will take place at a later date in New Canaan, CT.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in James’ name to the Connecticut Children’s Foundation, Inc., Attention: Memorial Gifts, P.O. Box 412901, Boston, MA 02241-2901. Please include the name of the honoree, or donations may be made online at www.connecticutchildrensfoundation.org.
Jim will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his steadfast faith, his enduring kindness, and sense of humor. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
