James Robert “Jaybird” Saunders, 71, of Portsmouth, passed away Saturday, March 22, 2025 at SOMC Hospice. He was born December 15, 1953 in Pikeville, KY, a son of the late Paul Leon, Sr. and Naomi Ruth (Earls) Saunders. James retired from Osco after 25 years, ran Beagles, loved cruises, and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his wife, Brenda Gay (Rackley) Saunders; his children, Cynthia Hall, Bobbie (Rick) Sexton, Brenda Sue Sexton, Eddie (Melissa) Sexton; eight grandchildren, Anthony, Micheal, Staci, Heather, Brittany, Dakota, Katie, Cody; six great grandchildren, Bryan, Lucas, TJ, Charlie, Amelia, and Marlee on the way; four brothers, Paul (Sandy) Saunders, Jr., Jesse (May) Saunders, Joseph (Wanda) Saunders, Samuel Saunders, and one sister, Sally Yost. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by one sister, Elizabeth Perkins.
Funeral services will be conducted on 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at Erwin-Dodson-Allen Funeral Home in Minford with Larry Moore officiating. Visitation will be 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. prior to the service. Online condolences may be sent to www.edafh.com.
