William Melton "Mel" Saunders

Bluefield, WV- William Melton “Mel” Saunders, age 73, of Bluefield, WV, died peacefully at home on November 16, 2025. He was born on December 3, 1951 in Roanoke, VA to the late William Ray Saunders and Louise Rebecca Overstreet Saunders. Mel is survived by his loving and devoted wife of nearly 49 years, Holly Jenene Stafford Saunders, son Stephen (Paige) Saunders of Bluefield, WV, daughter Jenene (Brian) Ferguson of Youngsville, NC, daughter Emily (Nicholas) Saunders Hooie of Knoxville, TN, grandchildren Piper and Elijah Saunders, Bethany and William Ferguson, and Luke Saunders Hooie, and brother, Carlton (Valentine) Saunders of Salem, VA. Mel was a 1970 graduate of Jefferson High School in Roanoke, VA, a 1974 graduate of Concord College in Athens, WV, and a 1997 master’s graduate of Shenandoah University, in Winchester, Virginia. He was a follower of Jesus, a husband, a father, a grandfather (Pops), a band director, a local recycling coordinator, and a Christmas enthusiast of the highest order. His family, faith, music, and servant’s heart were the foundations of his life. He and his wife, Holly, made Bluefield their home in 1977 and he loved his chosen hometown and state ever since. He mentored countless students throughout 37 years of teaching. He was happy to pass on a love and knowledge of music to anyone wishing to learn. After earning his masters, he founded the East River Mountain Town Band in 1997 to share music throughout southern WV. Once he retired from teaching in 2007, Mel started his second career as the city of Bluefield’s recycling program director. He enjoyed being outdoors and getting to talk to so many members of the community. Mel was a member of First Baptist Church of Bluefield, WV. He played his tuba and organized musical ensembles at numerous churches in the area for decades. He loved sharing his musical talent in his community and making worship services even more meaningful. Mel was known for some catchphrases such as, "On the line, one mo' time!" and would wish everyone a jovial, "Ho Ho Ho! Merry Christmas!" We know that Mel is restored in Christ. In keeping with his wishes, he will be cremated and his ashes dispersed by his children. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. The family would love to share in memories and stories of Mel. Those wishing to share memories or messages with the Saunders family may do so by visiting www.MercerFuneralHome.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Red Cross.

William Melton "Mel" Saunders

December 3, 1951 - November 16, 2025