Steven Robert Saunders, 77, died Wednesday, March 20, 2024. A lifelong Hampton Roads resident, Steven was raised in Hampton and he lived for many years by Willoughby beach. He and Karen loved walking the beach with their dogs. He was a Vietnam Army veteran. Steven retired from the Newport News Fire Department as Deputy Fire Marshall  after 33 years of service. He then went to work for Codes Compliance in Hampton for an additional 12 years. Steven was a lifetime Member of the Hampton Elks Lodge 366 where he enjoyed playing cards, particularly poker and gin rummy.

Car auctions and Nascar races were some of his favorite pastimes, but having a Corvette was his joy. He and Karen were always planning their next trip. He never met a stranger and had many lifelong friends.

A loving and caring husband and dad, he was also known as "Uncle Steve" to many other family members and their friends. Survivors include his wife, Karen Saunders; his daughter, Kristen F. Saunders; his son, Steven R. Saunders, Jr.; and many beloved nieces and nephews whom he treated more like grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Helen Saunders, his brother, Alfred Saunders, and his beloved nana, Evelyn Saunders Parker, who was like a mother to him.

The family will receive friends at 1:30 Sunday, March 24, 2024 at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home with a memorial service beginning at 3:00.

Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, 4217 Park Pl Ct, Glen Allen, VA 23060.