Debby “Jill” Dew Saunders
August 4, 1947 – September 12, 2024
WENDELL – Debby “Jill” Dew Saunders, 77, passed away peacefully September 12, 2024. She was born August 4, 1947, in Wilson, NC to the late Allen Jack Dew and Mary Bissette Dew of Bailey, NC.
Jill was a passionate supporter of Tar Heels basketball and a dedicated fan of sports in general. Her enthusiasm extended to her granddaughter, Caitlin, as she attended every softball game, band performance, and dance recital, cheering her on with unwavering love and support.
Family meant everything to Jill, and she was deeply invested in the well-being of her loved ones, neighbors, and community. Known for her warm, loving spirit, she transformed from a reserved young woman into a spirited and vibrant presence in her later years. Jill cherished long conversations with friends and family, finding joy in listening and connecting with others.
She is survived by her daughter, Kaja Ackerman; siblings, Jimmy Dew (Toni), and Sara Warren; brother, Ronnie Dew; brothers-in-law, Jerry Saunders (Carol), Eugene Saunders (Callie), and Allen Saunders (Brenda); sisters-in-law, Becky Saunders and Phyllis Saunders; nephews, Ben Warren, Jeremy Dew, Michael Dew, and Brian Dew; niece, Susan; and grandchild, Caitlin Ackerman. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews on her husband’s side. Jill is preceded in death by her husband, Charles Saunders; her nephew, David Dew; sister-in-law, Geraldine Boelter; and brothers-in-law, Randolph Saunders, Johnny Saunders, and Francis Warren.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm, Sunday, September 29, 2024, at Strickland Funeral Home, 211 W. Third Street, Wendell, NC 27591. Rev. Glen Brock will officiate the service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to help the family with funeral expenses: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-honor-jill-ama-saunders-memory?attribution_id=sl:9af7ec3a-081e-4397-880d-54d8491988b0&utm_campaign=man_sharesheet_dash&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link.
Arrangements are with Strickland Funeral Home & Crematory, 211 W. Third St., Wendell. www.stricklandfuneral.com
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