Betty Lou Ayers Saunders, born on July 17, 1938, in Martin County, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2026, in Suffolk, Virginia at the age of 88. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to many. 

Betty dedicated her life to her family and home. As a devoted homemaker, she took pride in raising her children and extending her nurturing care to others outside her own family. Her commitment to her loved ones was unwavering, and she also played an integral role in assisting her husband, Johnnie Parker Saunders, Sr., with his painting and contracting business. 

A woman of numerous talents and passions, Betty cherished her time in the garden, where she nurtured plants with the same love and care she showed to those around her. She was an exceptional cook, known for her delicious home-canned goods and lovingly prepared meals. Additionally, she enjoyed refinishing furniture, breathing new life into each piece with her creative touch. Betty was a faithful member of Radiant Life Ministries, where she found fellowship and spiritual nourishment. 

She is preceded in death by her cherished husband, Johnnie Parker Saunders, Sr.; her son, Michael Keith Saunders; step-children, Patricia Diane Dixon and Sharon Renee Justice; grandchildren, Melissa and Josh Justice; and siblings, Irvin, Harvey, Bud, Cecil, Ruby, Shirley, and Edith. 

Her legacy continues through her surviving family: children, Kay S. Howell (Mason), Wanda S. Callow (Gary), and Mary Beth S. Williams; step-son, Johnnie P. Saunders, Jr. (Anne); grandchildren, Nick Howell (Brittany), Katelyn H. Drewyor (David), Shannon Santiago (David), Clinton Callow, Christopher Callow, Ella Rose Suba (Misa), Chandler Edwards (Thomas), Falon Williams, Jared Saunders (Maggie); and great-grandchildren, Kennedy (William), Jude, Harley, Weston, Lillian, Karoline, and Kendall. She is also remembered fondly by numerous nieces and nephews. 

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 6 p.m. at Parr Funeral Home & Crematory, with Rev. Don Milner officiating. A time of visitation will follow the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Radiant Life Ministries. 

In honor of Betty’s love for flowers and bright colors, the family encourages attendees to wear bright colors to her service. 

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Sentara Hospice Team and Ms. Brown, her caregiver, for the compassionate care provided to Betty. 

May her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.

The service can be viewed live below and will be saved for future viewing as well.