James D. “JD” Saunders, a lifelong resident of Winchester died Tuesday Nov. 19th at the Winchester Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Born in Winchester, JD attended Winchester Public Schools before joining the US Army at the age of 17. He proudly served his country in Vietnam for 2 years. Upon his return he started his career as a truck driver. Through the years James was employed by Centre Trucking Service and Merrimac Cartage.
JD was a proud and active member of the Vietnam Vets Northeast Motorcycle Club and the Winchester VFW post 3719. He loved Westerns, reading about United States history, military history and enjoyed watching his Boston sports teams.
He is survived by his beloved and devoted former wife Valerie (Freda) Saunders of Winchester, his sons Jimmy Saunders and his partner Kristin Taurasi of Winchester, Eric Saunders and his wife Kim of North Port, FL and Brian Saunders and his wife Jessica of Tenafly, NJ. He was the loving partner of Arline Harris of North Reading. Brother of Cynthia Mastroianni of Wilmington, Robert Saunders of Dunbarton, NH and the late Richard Saunders and Jackie Strickland. Cherished Grampy of Karissa, Jayden, Zachary, Michael and Thomas. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews, his brothers in the Vietnam Vets Northeast Motorcycle Club and his beloved German shepherd Ruger, his best buddy!
Visiting hours will be held in the Costello Funeral Home, 177 Washington St., Winchester on Sat. Nov. 23rd from 11-2PM. Relatives and friends respectfully invited to attend. In lieu of flowers donations in JD’s memory may be made to the American Diabetes Assoc. at www.diabetes.org