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Wendell Louis Saunders, Sr., 76, of Westbrook passed away on Jan. 5. He was born on April 13, 1941, in Gates, North Carolina, the son of Theodore Roosevelt “Otis” Saunders and Ruth Riddick Saunders.

Wendell was a man of deep faith and an active member of his church. He worked at the Lee Company for 35 years, where his coworkers found his smile and easygoing nature encouraging. He was a fan of the Dodgers dating back to their days in Brooklyn. Wendell found great joy in attending his sons’ sporting events. In recent years, he cherished spending time with his beloved grandchildren.

Mr. Wendell Louis Saunders, Sr., is survived by his wife Dora-Lee; and sons Wendell Saunders, Jr., of Westbrook, Rev. Brendan Saunders and his wife Mary of Clinton, Paul Saunders and his wife Claire of Branford, and Andrew Saunders and his wife Ashley of Preston. He is also survived by siblings Suzanne Wilson, Margaret Seawright, Bessie Hunt, Milton Saunders, Ruth Odom, Gloria Boone, Mervelle Lassiter, Juanita Harvey, and Carolyn Williams; and grandchildren Jorden, Elise, Isaiah, and Hazel-Lee Saunders. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother Vivian Saunders.

Calling hours will be held Jan. 13, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 195 Old Boston Post Rd., Old Saybrook. A memorial service will follow in church, beginning at 1 p.m. Flowers can be sent to the church or donations made to The Josh Metell Foundation, www.jm3on3.com/the-josh-metell-foundation. For an online obituary or to sign the guest book, visit www.swanfuneralhomeoldsaybrook.com.